A recent remark by Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has triggered a political storm in India, with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launching a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi during an election rally on Monday.
Addressing a gathering in Bethuadahari , Nadia, ahead of the Assembly elections, Mamata questioned the Prime Minister’s silence over what she described as a direct threat to Kolkata. “When Pakistan’s Defence Minister speaks of attacking Kolkata, why did the Prime Minister — notwithstanding his visit to Bengal — not address this even once? Why did he not assure that a firm response would be taken?” she asked.
The controversy stems from comments made by Asif on Sunday, where he reportedly stated that if India were to launch any operation against Pakistan, Islamabad would take the conflict “all the way to Kolkata.” The statement comes amid already strained ties between India and Pakistan following last year’s terror attack in Pahalgam and the subsequent military response, referred to as Operation Sindoor.
Reacting strongly, Mamata accused the Centre of failing to respond adequately to the remarks. “Bengal leads the entire nation. When such a threat is issued, why is the Prime Minister silent?” she asked, intensifying her criticism of the BJP-led government.
The Chief Minister went further, alleging that the timing of the statement raised serious concerns. “Why is the Prime Minister sitting silent? Is there a blueprint for another Pahalgam-like incident before the elections? Is this entire episode staged?” she asked, while also demanding an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the Pakistani minister’s comments.
In a strongly worded statement, Mamata warned that any attempt to target Bengal would be met with resistance. She also called for accountability at the highest level, demanding the Prime Minister’s resignation over what she termed as the Centre’s inaction.
Emphasising national pride, she said, “As Indians, we will not tolerate this insult. You may target Bengal politically, but when a foreign defence minister targets Bengal, why do you remain silent?”
The remarks have further intensified the political discourse ahead of the West Bengal Assembly elections, with the issue of national security and Centre-state relations taking centre stage.
Also read: Mamata hits out at ‘vandalism’ during Shah’s rally in Kolkata
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