Political Disunity in India: A Setback Amidst National Crisis

In the wake of a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India's political landscape is marred by disunity between the government and the Opposition. Despite initial solidarity, recent disputes over leadership nominations for an outreach program have tarnished the nation's image. A BJP minister's derogatory remarks about a female army officer and the arrest of a professor for free speech further complicate the situation. This article delves into the implications of these developments on India's global standing and the urgent need for political cohesion during crises.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 20, 2025, 06:43 IST

Political Tensions Emerge Post-Terror Attack

After a commendable display of solidarity from both the Indian government and the Opposition following the terrorist incident in Pahalgam on April 22 and the subsequent Operation Sindoor aimed at combating cross-border terrorism, the political landscape seems to be reverting to its divisive nature. The goodwill generated appears to be dissipating as both sides engage in familiar partisan disputes, even in the face of a national tragedy that has claimed lives. The ongoing conflict between the central government and the Congress party regarding the selection of leaders for an outreach initiative to present India's stance in the ongoing conflict is tarnishing the nation's reputation on the global stage.

In a troubling incident, a minister from the ruling BJP in Madhya Pradesh has drawn criticism for making offensive comments about a female army officer who played a significant role in Operation Sindoor. Legal action is underway, with the court instructing police to file a First Information Report (FIR) against the minister. Meanwhile, a professor from a well-known university has been detained in BJP-led Haryana for expressing views that he claims do not violate any laws, despite allegations from the police and the Haryana State Commission for Women (HSCW). The Supreme Court has agreed to hear this matter urgently on May 19.

It is surprising that neither the central nor state BJP leadership has condemned the minister's remarks, which would likely have invoked severe penalties under the Sedition Laws had they been made by someone outside the ruling party. Conversely, the BJP has swiftly acted to arrest the professor, who maintains that his patriotism is unquestionable and that his critiques fall within the bounds of free speech as protected by the Constitution.

The Narendra Modi administration has announced seven delegations tasked with articulating India's position regarding the recent terrorist attack and its confrontations with Pakistan. This initiative is commendable as it unites representatives from both the ruling party and the Opposition, along with diplomats and strategic analysts, showcasing a unified Indian front against the atrocities committed by terrorists. It is crucial to emphasize India's embodiment of unity in diversity on the global stage, especially as this image has been significantly challenged in recent years due to the frequent marginalization of pluralism.

Historically, the Narasimha Rao government exemplified this unity by appointing then-Opposition leader Atal Bihari Vajpayee to represent India at the UN, transcending narrow political interests and enhancing the nation's image. However, the current scenario reveals that both the ruling party and Congress have allowed their petty politics to overshadow national interests. The Congress submitted a list of leaders for inclusion in the outreach committees, which the government largely dismissed, opting instead for its preferred Congress members. This rejection highlights internal conflicts within the Congress, as it excludes some of its most articulate representatives on international matters.

The government's approach should have been more inclusive, accepting Congress's nominees rather than imposing its own. If the government had prepared its list in advance, there would have been no need to request Congress to nominate members. The arrest of the professor at this critical time is particularly concerning, especially given that the BJP minister in Madhya Pradesh has not faced any repercussions for his derogatory comments about Colonel Sofiya Qureshi, whom he referred to as the 'sister' of terrorists. This lack of accountability exacerbates communal tensions and stifles dissenting voices.

The Congress's objections to the government's unilateral selection of its MPs have already tarnished the image of the parliamentary groups set to represent India abroad. Additionally, the withdrawal of the TMC from this initiative further complicates matters. The government should have engaged in consultations with leaders from the Opposition to foster a more favorable image for the country. Unfortunately, the current desire for political superiority is proving detrimental to India's interests.