A Turning Point in Political Consensus
In the wake of the brutal Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives—mostly tourists—India launched Operation Sindoor, a bold counteroffensive targeting terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The move drew not only strategic and military attention but also triggered a rare moment of political unity across party lines. In an unusual yet welcomed departure from previous years, the government has called for an all-party meeting on May 8, 2025, to brief opposition leaders about the operation. The meeting is set to be chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, while senior leaders from the Congress, including Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge, have confirmed attendance. The Opposition’s reaction this time reflects a significant departure from their earlier posture in 2016 and 2019, when skepticism and political fault lines dominated the national discourse.
Three Strikes, Three Political Climates
The strikes of 2016 and 2019, in response to Uri and Pulwama respectively, exposed deep political divides. Following the 2016 Uri surgical strikes, opposition leaders demanded proof and questioned the motives, accusing the government of politicizing military operations. Similarly, the Balakot airstrikes in 2019 saw repeated calls for transparency and accountability, with 21 opposition parties issuing statements condemning what they called the “blatant politicization” of the armed forces’ sacrifices. The criticism then was not just tactical but ideologically pointed, painting national security as a tool for political mileage.
Operation Sindoor: A Different Response in 2025
This time, the tone is markedly different. In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor, the Congress Working Committee issued a statement of full support for the armed forces and suspended all political activities. The Opposition, rather than dividing over strategy or evidence, rallied around the government, acknowledging the emotional and national urgency following the Pahalgam massacre. Statements from leaders across parties praised the armed forces and even commended the government’s decisiveness. This united response underscores a maturation of political conduct in times of national crisis—a departure from posturing to partnership.
Moreover, unlike previous years, the government appears more inclusive in its approach. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju’s announcement and the decision to hold a detailed briefing for Opposition leaders show a deliberate attempt to build trust and transparency across the aisle. There’s also speculation that Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself may attend the session—something that did not happen during the earlier all-party meeting in April after the Pahalgam attack. This gesture, if it occurs, could further solidify this moment of political cohesion.
The Emotional Undercurrent
The public’s emotional response to the Pahalgam tragedy also seems to have influenced the political tone. The victims were primarily civilians—families, children, and tourists—making the attack not just a breach of security but a deep societal wound. This collective grief has reshaped the political imperative, compelling parties to put national interest above party politics, at least temporarily.
Unity as a Strategic Asset
India’s counterterror operations are not new. But what makes Operation Sindoor a landmark is not just its tactical execution—it is the unprecedented political unity that followed. The government’s willingness to brief the Opposition, the Opposition’s readiness to listen and support, and the public’s demand for collective resolve all signal a maturing democracy learning to prioritize national interest over narrow partisanship.
In times of external threat, unity isn’t just a moral stance—it’s a strategic asset. If India can preserve this cohesion beyond a moment of crisis, it may not only deter enemies more effectively but also reinforce its democratic resilience in the eyes of the world.
(With agency inputs)
