Ex-Minister Questions NIA Probe in Pahalgam Case

Senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram has openly questioned the Indian government’s silence over the April 22 Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), criticising what he described as a lack of transparency and accountability.

In a recent interview, the former Home Minister said the government’s reluctance to share details about the attack and the subsequent military operation, codenamed Operation Sindoor, raises serious concerns. He pointed out that despite reports of arrests of those allegedly linked to the attackers, their legal status and whereabouts remain unclear.

Chidambaram said that critical updates were being delivered sporadically by military officials abroad, while key ministers have stayed silent. “There has been no official explanation from the Prime Minister or Defence Minister,” he noted, calling the communication strategy inconsistent and evasive.

He also questioned whether Operation Sindoor, the military’s response, had suffered setbacks. “If strategic changes were made, what were the original flaws?” he asked, suggesting the Modi government could be hiding tactical mistakes.

Chidambaram expressed further doubt over the National Investigation Agency’s probe into the incident, asking why no public evidence has been presented to support claims of cross-border involvement. “It’s possible the perpetrators were domestic,” he warned.

Pakistan, meanwhile, launched its own retaliatory operation — Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos — reportedly downing several Indian jets and surveillance drones. India has not confirmed the losses. A ceasefire was reached on May 10, following mediation by US President Donald Trump, whose role was acknowledged by Islamabad.

Chidambaram said that both transparency and truth are essential to national security. “There’s no shame in admitting losses,” he remarked. “The people deserve clarity.”