Aiyar argued that New Delhi should return to the negotiating table without delay, suggesting that sustained engagement was necessary to manage tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. While he did not elaborate on operational details, his comments came amid heightened political debate over India’s counter-terror and security posture.
The BJP responded forcefully. Party spokesperson Shahzad Poonawalla accused the Congress of repeatedly undermining national security and coined the phrase “Islamabad National Congress” to criticise the party’s stance. Poonawalla alleged that Congress leaders have consistently questioned military actions against Pakistan and cited past remarks by Rahul Gandhi on surgical strikes and Operation Sindoor to reinforce his attack. “Insulting the army and giving Pakistan a clean chit has become their identity,” he said.
Other BJP leaders echoed the criticism. BJP MP Yogendra Chandolia questioned Aiyar’s credibility, pointing to terrorist incidents during previous Congress-led governments. “Under the Modi government, any misadventure by Pakistan will be met with a firm response,” he said.
Opposition parties offered more nuanced reactions. Samajwadi Party spokesperson Fakhrul Hasan Chand said calls for dialogue had also come from several countries after Operation Sindoor, and questioned inconsistencies in the government’s public messaging on engagement with Pakistan. RJD spokesperson Mrityunjay Tiwari maintained that foreign policy decisions rest solely with the government and should not be politicised through personal statements.
Left leaders defended Aiyar’s right to express his views. CPI(M) leader Hannan Mollah described the remarks as a “reasonable opinion” and said public debate was essential in a democracy, adding that people would judge the merit of the argument themselves.
The controversy has also revived scrutiny of Aiyar’s earlier statements, which have often placed him at odds with his own party and rivals alike. In recent months, he has questioned global responses to terror attacks, commented on the political rise of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, and advocated long-term refuge for former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
With national security and Pakistan policy remaining politically sensitive issues, Aiyar’s remarks are likely to keep the debate alive, further sharpening the divide between the ruling party and the opposition ahead of key parliamentary sessions
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