Congress and RJD leaders criticize the attack on IAF convoy as a “poll stunt,” sparking controversy.

Two opposition leaders, former Punjab Chief Minister Charanjit Singh Channi and Rashtriya Janata Dal’s Tej Pratap Yadav, have drawn a parallel between the recent terror attack on two IAF vehicles in the Bakrabal (Sanai) area of Poonch and the Pulwama attack of 2019, in which 40 CRPF men were killed. They alleged that the recent attack was a “stunt” orchestrated to benefit the BJP. These comments have provided the BJP with an opportunity to criticize the Congress, with Union Minister Anurag Thakur enumerating instances where the Congress let down the armed forces. Anurag Thakur dismissed the recent attacks as “stunts” rather than actual terrorist attacks, claiming that they were orchestrated to benefit the Bharatiya Janata Party during elections.

He also highlighted the Congress’ alleged failure in supporting the armed forces. Meanwhile, in Patna, Tej Pratap Yadav echoed similar sentiments, attributing the timing of terrorist attacks to coincide with elections and holding Prime Minister Modi responsible for the martyrdom of soldiers. The BJP also received support from Punjab leader Sunil Jakhar, who criticized the comments made by Mr. Channi. Furthermore, the BJP candidate Sushil Rinku condemned Channi’s remarks and accused him of disrespecting the soldiers and the country.

The history of national security becoming a key issue in the elections following the 2019 Pulwama attack was also mentioned, along with the subsequent aerial strikes at Balakot by India in retaliation. The Congress had previously raised questions and demanded a white paper after the BJP’s victory in the election, but over time had softened its stance, wary of allegations that the party was casting doubt on the armed forces. The recent terror attack resulted in the death of Corporal Vikky Pahade of the Indian Air Force and injuries to four other soldiers.