Congress leader Kapil Sibal on Tuesday strongly condemned RSS general secretary Dattatreya Hosabale for describing the cross-border attacks by Pakistan as 'pinpricks', terming the remark as 'obnoxious' and 'insensitive'.
Controversial Remark Sparks Outrage
Hosabale, while addressing a gathering, had referred to the recent attacks from across the border as minor incidents or 'pinpricks', downplaying their severity. This statement drew sharp criticism from opposition leaders, who accused the RSS of undermining the sacrifices of Indian soldiers.
Sibal's Strong Reaction
Taking to social media, Sibal wrote: 'The statement by the RSS general secretary calling Pakistan's attacks as pinpricks is obnoxious and insensitive. It shows a complete disregard for the lives of our brave soldiers and the security of our nation.'
Sibal further questioned the government's stance on national security, asking whether such remarks reflect the official position of the ruling dispensation.
Political Fallout
The controversy comes at a time when India-Pakistan tensions remain high, with frequent ceasefire violations along the Line of Control. Opposition parties have demanded an apology from Hosabale, while the BJP distanced itself from the remark, stating that it does not represent the government's view.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, when asked about the issue, said, 'Every attack on our soldiers is serious, and we condemn any attempt to trivialize them.'
The incident has reignited the debate over the RSS's influence on policy matters, with critics arguing that such statements embolden adversaries.
