Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has come under intense criticism after invoking religious and cultural symbolism to justify the recently launched Operation Sindoor during a rally in West Bengal. His remarks have triggered a fierce political backlash, with opposition leader and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accusing him of using military action for political and ideological gains.
At the rally on Thursday, Modi declared that Operation Sindoor, launched on May 7, was “not yet over” and described it as a mission supported by the entire Indian population. Referring to previous cross-border military actions, including the 2016 Uri strikes and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, Modi claimed that Indian forces had penetrated Pakistani territory three times to eliminate terrorist threats.
Standing on what he referred to as the sacred land of “Sindoor Khela,” a traditional Bengali celebration, Modi drew parallels between the operation and the symbolism of sindoor (vermillion), which represents the marital status and honor of women in Indian culture. He said, “Terrorists tried to erase the sindoor of our sisters, but our forces responded with the power of sindoor. Operation Sindoor is a message from 140 crore Indians.”
His statements were met with sharp rebuke from Banerjee, who slammed the prime minister for blending military operations with cultural and religious imagery. She accused Modi of turning the campaign into political theatre, calling the name “Operation Sindoor” a strategic move designed to emotionally manipulate voters.
“This is political holi being played with military actions,” Banerjee said, urging that such branding does not suit a national leader. She questioned the symbolic use of sindoor, remarking, “PM Modi is not anyone’s husband—why not give sindoor to your own wife first?” She emphasized that sindoor symbolizes dignity, not political merchandise.
Banerjee also challenged Modi’s political messaging in West Bengal, where he accused her administration of corruption, communal unrest, and inefficiency, citing incidents in Murshidabad, Malda, and the multi-crore teacher recruitment scam.
Defending her government, Banerjee accused Modi of attempting to polarize voters and dismissed his criticisms as tactics from the “Jumla Party.” She also questioned the effectiveness of Operation Sindoor, pointing to the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives. “Where are the terrorists who caused that tragedy? Has anyone been arrested?” she asked.
Moreover, Banerjee criticized Modi’s silence on international mediation, particularly regarding former U.S. President Donald Trump’s claim of brokering a May 10 ceasefire between India and Pakistan. “He hears the word America and goes silent,” she remarked.
Challenging Modi to a live, unscripted debate, Banerjee concluded: “If you’re really brave, face the media on live TV. Let’s debate any issue—bring your teleprompter if needed. We are ready.”
