‘Govt Surrendered to Pak in 30 Mins, Tied IAF Pilots’ Hands,’ Rahul Gandhi’s scathing attack in Lok Sabha

Congress leader Rahul Gandhi launched a blistering attack in Lok Sabha, accusing the Modi government of lacking political will during Operation Sindoor, claiming it “surrendered” to Pakistan within 30 minutes and tied the hands of Indian Air Force and compelled IAF’s to not retaliate. He contrasted this with Indira Gandhi’s 1971 war strategy.

Lok Sabha Monsoon Session 2025: On the second day of the ongoing discussion on Operation Sindoor in the Lok Sabha, Congress leader and Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a strong attack on the central government.

He alleged that during Pakistan's retaliatory strike after Operation Sindoor, the Modi government did not show political will and agreed to a ceasefire in just 30 minutes. He said that this tied the hands of the Indian Air Force pilots and sent a message to Pakistan that India would not take any further action.

Priyanka Gandhi slams Amit Shah and Rajnath Singh over the Pahalgam attack, questions government’s silence and negligence

"The government tied the hands of the pilots"

Rahul Gandhi cited the statement of Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, in which he said that "we informed Pakistan at 1:35 am that we have attacked terrorist bases and now there is no need for any escalation." Calling it a "surrender," Rahul said that "the government itself told Pakistan that we do not want to fight." He alleged that this encouraged Pakistan and made it difficult for Indian military commanders to retaliate.

Heated debate in Rajya Sabha as Nadda clashes with Kharge; Later takes back words

"Like in 1971, political will was not shown."

Citing the example of the 1971 war, Rahul praised the strategy of Indira Gandhi and Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. He said that Sam Manekshaw had told Indira Gandhi, "Not now; we will attack after six months," and Indira Ji gave him enough time. The result was that India achieved a historic victory, 93,000 Pakistani soldiers surrendered, and Bangladesh was formed. Rahul said that "this requires political will, which the Modi government does not have."

"Operation Sindoor was only to save the image of the Prime Minister"

Rahul Gandhi also alleged that the real purpose of Operation Sindoor was to "save the image" of PM Modi and not to end terrorism. He also reminded Donald Trump of his claim in which he had said 29 times that he brought about a ceasefire between India and Pakistan. Rahul challenged, "If this is wrong, then the Prime Minister should come to the House and say that Trump is lying."