Special Correspondent | Nagpur
In a sharp attack on the Congress party, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday accused Congress leaders, particularly Rahul Gandhi, of undermining the credibility of the Indian Army even as they hold events like the Jai Hind Yatra. Speaking during a Tiranga Yatra organized by the BJP in Khaparkheda village near Nagpur, Fadnavis said, “On one hand, you want to lead a Jai Hind Yatra, and on the other hand, you raise doubts about our army? This hypocrisy will not be tolerated.”
Referring to Rahul Gandhi’s recent remarks, Fadnavis alleged that they reflect a growing tendency within the Congress to question the armed forces’ capabilities. “By making such statements, you are not just attacking the government—you are insulting the valor and sacrifice of our jawans,” he added.
The BJP’s Tiranga Yatra, held in response to growing nationalistic sentiments post-‘Operation Sindoor’, saw Fadnavis marching one kilometer on foot alongside hundreds of party workers and citizens. Addressing the gathering, he said, “I want to tell Pakistan—Sun le beta Pakistan, baap hai tera Hindustan!” The slogan drew loud applause from the crowd.
Fadnavis further emphasized that true patriotism goes beyond political slogans. “If you really say ‘Jai Hind’, then you must stand unwaveringly with the Indian Army. You cannot shout ‘Jai Hind’ while spreading doubt and distrust about those who guard our borders,” he said, urging the Congress to ensure their yatra doesn’t turn into a mere political gimmick.
Taking a dig at Pakistan, Fadnavis noted, “Pakistan was forced to surrender and plead for a ceasefire. India’s military might is now four to five times stronger than theirs. We are among the world’s top five military powers.” He also lauded the success of ‘Operation Sindoor’ as a demonstration of India’s enhanced defense capabilities and indigenous weapon development under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Slamming countries like Turkey for openly backing terrorism, Fadnavis said such nations are guilty of crimes against humanity. “The people of India have shown their patriotism by choosing not to engage with such countries economically or diplomatically. This silent boycott is a strong and responsible message from every Indian,” he said, applauding the citizens for their collective stand.
In a clear message to the opposition, the Chief Minister concluded, “If you cannot trust the army, you have no moral right to walk under the tricolor or say ‘Jai Hind’. National pride demands national unity—not political point-scoring at the cost of our soldiers’ honor.”
