Ramesh’s explosive jibe: 'Terrorists roam free, so do our MPs', BJP hits back

In a statement that has sparked political outrage and widespread criticism, Congress senior leader Jairam Ramesh on Thursday drew a highly controversial parallel between the terrorists responsible for the horrific Pahalgam terror attack and Members of Parliament who are part of India’s all-party delegation spreading the country’s anti-terror message globally. His comment, delivered during an interview with ANI, has ignited a fresh storm in the already heated political discourse surrounding national security.

Comparing terrorists to MPs

Jairam Ramesh alleged that the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack were the same group responsible for four other major attacks, and claimed that they continue to roam freely without being apprehended. In a shocking analogy, he then likened them to India’s elected representatives. “These terrorists of Pahalgam were involved in four attacks, and still they are roaming around here and there. Our MPs are roaming and terrorists are also roaming,” he stated, sparking immediate backlash.

BJP’s focus is political, not strategic, claims Ramesh

Escalating his attack, Ramesh turned his ire towards the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of concentrating more on targeting the Congress party than confronting terrorism and holding Pakistan accountable. “Their attack is on the Congress party; it should be on the terrorists. Action should be taken against Pakistan. The terrorists should be arrested. The missiles that are being launched every day are being launched against the Congress party,” he added, suggesting the government is politicizing national security.

Operation Sindoor and the national security narrative

Ramesh’s remarks come at a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invoked Operation Sindoor India’s military response to the Pahalgam terror attack as a sign of national resolve and unity against terrorism. His comments seem to challenge the government’s narrative by accusing it of inaction and misdirection, raising questions about accountability and the effectiveness of India’s anti-terror strategy.

Political fallout and demands for clarification

The comparison has drawn harsh criticism from various political leaders and analysts, who have termed it "deeply disrespectful" and "irresponsible". Many have demanded that the Congress party either clarify or distance itself from Ramesh’s comments. The BJP responded sharply, calling his statement an insult to both the country’s armed forces and democratic institutions. 

National security becomes a political battleground again

With elections looming and the threat of terrorism back in focus after the brutal Pahalgam incident, national security has once again become a political battleground. Ramesh’s controversial remarks have added fuel to an already intense debate, forcing both parties to redefine their stance on handling terrorism while balancing political rhetoric.