Sonia Gandhi's Claims on Operation Blue Star Spark Controversy in Punjab

Sonia Gandhi's latest book, 'Belonging: A Journey of Love', has stirred controversy with her claims about Indira Gandhi's emotional response to Operation Blue Star. The book, which discusses various historical events, includes a poignant account of Indira's tears upon seeing the aftermath of the operation. This revelation has drawn sharp criticism from the Akali Dal, who accuse the Congress party of orchestrating a conspiracy against the Sikh community. In response, Congress has defended Sonia's statements, emphasizing their commitment to the people of Punjab. The unfolding political drama highlights the lasting impact of historical events on contemporary politics.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 10, 2026, 14:09 IST

Sonia Gandhi's New Book Reveals Emotional Impact of Operation Blue Star

Ahead of the elections in Punjab, Sonia Gandhi has made significant remarks regarding 'Operation Blue Star' in her newly released book. She asserts that former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi was deeply saddened upon viewing images from the aftermath of the operation, shedding tears over the devastation.

These revelations are part of her book titled 'Belonging: A Journey of Love', which is set to be launched today. In this work, Sonia aims to unveil lesser-known aspects of the Gandhi family's history, discussing various topics from the Emergency to the Babri Masjid demolition, including her comments on Operation Blue Star.

Indira Gandhi's Tears Over the Aftermath

In an interview with 'The Guardian' prior to the book's launch, Sonia Gandhi recounted that Indira Gandhi was visibly emotional when shown the destruction caused by Operation Blue Star. She also mentioned that following the operation, Indira faced threats to her life and was aware of the dangers she encountered. Sonia recalled, "She had told us what to do if something happened to her, indicating she was preparing for the worst. She advised Rahul to be brave and not to cry."

Reactions from Akali Dal

The remarks made by Sonia Gandhi have provoked a strong response from the Shiromani Akali Dal. Spokesperson Arshdeep Singh Kaler criticized the Congress party, claiming that the operation was a conspiracy against the Sikh community. He stated that the pain inflicted by Operation Blue Star would resonate in the hearts of Sikhs for generations, drawing parallels to the anti-Sikh riots of 1984 and emphasizing that the suffering caused by Congress cannot be adequately expressed in words.

Congress Defends Sonia Gandhi's Statements

In light of the backlash from Akali Dal, Congress has come to Sonia Gandhi's defense. Raj Kumar Verka, the acting president of Punjab Congress, clarified that the party has never justified Operation Blue Star and has consistently stood by the people of Punjab. He highlighted the visits of Rahul and Sonia Gandhi to the Golden Temple, noting that both leaders have paid their respects there.