In May 2025, a political controversy erupted in India following statements by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi regarding Operation Sindoor, a military operation targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan. Gandhi alleged that the Indian government had informed Pakistan in advance about the strikes, a claim based on a video clip of External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. The Indian government and Pakistan’s military have both refuted this assertion, leading to a heated political debate.
Rahul Gandhi’s Allegations
Rahul Gandhi criticized the Indian government’s handling of Operation Sindoor, asserting that prior notification to Pakistan compromised the mission’s success and endangered Indian forces. He labeled the alleged advance warning as a “crime” and questioned who authorized such a move. Gandhi’s claims were based on a video clip where Minister Jaishankar purportedly mentioned informing Pakistan at the start of the operation. He further questioned the number of Indian aircraft lost due to this alleged disclosure.(The Times of India, The Financial Express)
Government’s Rebuttal
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) dismissed Gandhi’s claims as a “misrepresentation of facts.” The MEA clarified that Pakistan was informed only after the initial strikes had been carried out, emphasizing that no prior warning was given to maintain operational security. The government maintained that the operation targeted terrorist infrastructure and that communication with Pakistan occurred post-strike to prevent escalation.(@EconomicTimes, The Times of India, The Financial Express)
Pakistan’s Response
Pakistan’s Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DGISPR) also refuted Gandhi’s claims, describing them as a “comical narrative.” The DGISPR stated that no advance notice was received from India regarding the strikes and dismissed the notion of relying on Indian sources for intelligence.(@EconomicTimes)
Political Fallout
The controversy has intensified political tensions within India. The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused Gandhi of echoing Pakistan’s narrative and undermining national security. BJP leaders criticized Gandhi’s statements, suggesting they could be used by adversaries to question India’s military decisions.
Conclusion
The debate over Operation Sindoor underscores the complexities of military operations and the importance of accurate communication. While the Indian government and Pakistan’s military deny any prior notification, the controversy highlights the need for transparency and accountability in matters of national security.