Priyanka Gandhi Critiques Government's Handling of Pahalgam Attack in Lok Sabha
In a recent Lok Sabha session, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra criticized the government's response to the Pahalgam attack, questioning the absence of security personnel and the accountability of top officials. She expressed her respect for the soldiers protecting the nation and shared personal reflections on loss, emphasizing the need for better safety measures for citizens. Her poignant remarks included a victim's wife's statement about feeling abandoned by the government. This debate highlights ongoing concerns about national security and the responsibilities of government leaders.
| Jul 29, 2025, 15:32 IST
Congress MP Raises Concerns in Lok Sabha
During a debate on Operation Sindoor, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra expressed her views in the Lok Sabha. She pointed out that the Defense Minister delivered a lengthy speech discussing terrorism and national defense, yet failed to address a crucial question: how did the attack occur? She accused the government of leaving the people in Pahalgam to fend for themselves. Priyanka expressed her respect for the soldiers who protect the nation in deserts, dense forests, and snowy mountains, always ready to sacrifice their lives for the country.
Questions on Security Measures
The Congress leader highlighted the significant contributions of soldiers in safeguarding the country's integrity since Pakistan's aggression in Kashmir began in 1948. She questioned the absence of security personnel in the Basiran Valley, Pahalgam, and asked whether the Prime Minister, Home Minister, and Defense Minister were not responsible for the safety of citizens. Criticizing Amit Shah, she noted that the Home Minister spoke about the actions of Nehru and Indira Gandhi but did not clarify why a ceasefire was declared.
Personal Reflections on Loss
Priyanka Gandhi recounted her mother's tears shed when her husband was martyred by terrorists at the age of 44. She expressed empathy for the victims of the Pahalgam attack, stating that she understands their pain. She accused the government of evading accountability and claimed that they lack genuine concern for the public, viewing everything through a political lens.
Lack of Security During the Attack
The MP from Wayanad remarked that many members in the house enjoy security, while on the day of the Pahalgam attack, 26 individuals were killed in front of their families without any protection. She emphasized that despite any operations conducted, the truth cannot be concealed.
Victim's Wife Speaks Out
She shared a poignant statement from the wife of Shubham Dwivedi, a victim of the Pahalgam attack, who said, 'I watched my world end before my eyes; there was not a single security guard present. I can say that the government left us orphaned there.' She raised the question of why there was no security, especially knowing that 1,000 to 1,500 tourists visit daily, often requiring a trek through the forest, with no medical facilities available. People relied on the government, only to be abandoned.