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Politics
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Poonch Attack: Politicization of Soldier's Sacrifice Disrespects Their Valor

By
BO Desk
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Progress
May 7, 2024
Former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and Rashtriya Janata Dal's Tej Pratap Yadav have made controversial statements, claiming that the attack was not a genuine terrorist incident but rather a political ploy. 

The recent attack on an Indian Air Force (IAF) convoy in Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir, has claimed the life of Corporal Vikky Pahade and left four other soldiers injured. The incident, which occurred when the convoy was en route to Sanai Top, has sparked a political controversy, with opposition leaders drawing parallels to the 2019 Pulwama attack and alleging that the attack was a "stunt" to benefit the ruling BJP in the ongoing general elections.

Former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and Rashtriya Janata Dal's Tej Pratap Yadav have made controversial statements, claiming that the attack was not a genuine terrorist incident but rather a political ploy. Channi went so far as to say, "These are all stunts and not terrorist attacks. There is no truth in it. The BJP is playing with the lives of people and bodies for its own gain."

However, these remarks have been met with sharp criticism from the BJP and its allies, who have accused the opposition leaders of disrespecting the sacrifices made by our brave soldiers. Union Minister Anurag Thakur stated, "Instead of strengthening the army, they did brokerage for 10 years. After Pulwama we did a surgical strike."

The attack in Poonch is particularly significant as the district is located along the Line of Control, with Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK) on three sides. The region is known for its hilly terrain, dense forests, and frequent movement of Indian security forces, making it a prime target for terrorist activities. Poonch has been one of the most attack-prone regions in Jammu and Kashmir for decades.

In a related development, former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir and National Conference (NC) leader Farooq Abdullah reacted to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's remark about merging POK with India. Abdullah cautioned, "If the defence minister is saying it, then go ahead. Who are we to stop? But remember, they (Pakistan) are also not wearing bangles. It has atom bombs, and unfortunately, that atom bomb will fall on us."

As the nation mourns the loss of Corporal Vikky Pahade and prays for the speedy recovery of the injured soldiers, it is crucial that the sacrifice of our brave men in uniform is respected and not politicized for political gains. The security forces have announced a ₹20 lakh reward for any information leading to the arrest of the two suspected terrorists involved in the attack.

It is the duty of all citizens to stand united in the face of such challenges and support our armed forces in their efforts to maintain the integrity and sovereignty of our nation. Politicizing the loss of lives of our soldiers only serves to undermine their valor and the sacrifices they make to protect our country.

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