Controversy Erupts in Jammu and Kashmir Politics Over BJP MLA's Comments on IAF

A political storm has erupted in Jammu and Kashmir following BJP MLA R.S. Pathania's alleged derogatory remarks about the Indian Air Force during a meeting. The controversy began with a video clip that has drawn widespread condemnation from the Congress party, which is demanding an apology. Pathania has denied the allegations, claiming the video was edited to damage his reputation. As tensions rise, calls for accountability from the BJP leadership are growing, highlighting the sensitive nature of comments regarding the armed forces. This incident raises questions about political discourse and respect for national institutions.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 30, 2025, 09:19 IST

Political Fallout from Controversial Remarks

A video has emerged featuring BJP MLA R.S. Pathania making allegedly derogatory remarks about the Indian Air Force (IAF) during a meeting concerning a land dispute, sparking significant controversy in Jammu and Kashmir's political landscape.

Pathania, the MLA from Udhampur East, has vehemently denied the allegations, asserting that the clip has been manipulated to tarnish his reputation. He mentioned that the party's legal team has lodged a complaint with the police.

The controversy ignited when a nine-second video clip surfaced on social media, in which Pathania appears to criticize the IAF's role during Operation Sindoor and questions its capabilities.

The Jammu and Kashmir unit of the Congress party condemned the remarks, labeling them as disrespectful and demanding an apology. In the clip, Pathania is heard saying, "Everyone knows what happened at the air force station during Operation Sindoor. It would be foolishness on their part, or perhaps they were asleep. What fault do we have? We have held them in high regard."

In response to the uproar, Pathania released a video statement asserting, "I have not said anything against the armed forces. The clip has been edited. Our legal team is taking action, and an FIR has been filed against those spreading this misinformation."

Congress's acting president, Raman Bhalla, expressed, "We condemn this. Why is the BJP's top leadership silent on such comments against our armed forces? We demand strict action against all such leaders."