In a scathing attack on the BJP, Jammu and Kashmir Pradesh Congress Committee (JKPCC) chief Tariq Hameed Karra today accused the ruling party of exploiting the bravery of the armed forces for political gain, claiming that Operation Sindoor is a matter of national security, not a political gimmick.
Addressing a press conference at the PCC office in Jammu, Karra condemned statements made by BJP leaders, including Madhya Pradesh Minister Vijay Shah and Deputy CM Jagdish Devda, as “insulting” to the valor and sacrifice of the Indian armed forces.
Karra emphasized that the armed forces serve the nation, not a political party, and should be respected beyond party lines. “The BJP’s attempt to hijack the glory of Operation Sindoor for electoral mileage is a dishonor to our jawans,” he said.
Congress Conducts Ground Visit to Border Districts
Flanked by Working President Raman Bhalla, Chief Spokesperson Ravinder Sharma, AICC Secretary Neeraj Kundan, and other leaders, Karra recounted his extensive tour of affected areas in Poonch, Rajouri, Jammu, Samba, and Kathua. He said the team visited Temples, Gurudwaras, and Mosques damaged by Pakistan shelling and met several victim families.
“Poonch is the worst hit,” Karra noted, adding that the civilian population was deliberately targeted by Pakistan, reflecting an “inhuman face.”
Demands for Martyr Status & Special Relief Package
Karra demanded martyr status for all who lost their lives in the Pahalgam terror attack and the recent cross-border shelling, including civilians. He criticized the government for denying the status even to Agniveers killed in action.
He also called for a comprehensive special package for border residents, which should include:
- Construction of bunkers and community shelters in populated areas
- Audit and upgrade of existing infrastructure
- Immediate interim relief for damaged homes
- Special recruitment drives for border youth
- Permission for self-defense weapons to border villagers
Karra reminded the media that the UPA Government had provided a ₹60 crore package for Chhamb border victims, suggesting that a similar initiative be extended to zero-line LoC areas.
Jai Hind Yatra on May 20
To honor the valor of Indian forces and unite people in national solidarity, Karra announced a ‘Jai Hind Sabha’ followed by ‘Jai Hind Yatra’ on May 20, starting 10:30 AM from Shaheedi Chowk to Indira Chowk, Jammu.
Karra Defends BJP Legislator Against False Accusations
He also defended a former BJP legislator from Poonch who was reportedly labeled a terrorist by a media outlet while helping the injured during a religious teacher’s killing. “Such journalism is shameful and dishonors a true martyr,” Karra said.
Nation United Against Terrorism
Karra hailed the spirit of Hindu-Muslim unity and the strong national support for the government’s action against terrorism. He urged Pakistan to stop targeting civilians and called Pahalgam carnage a “crime against humanity.”
