External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj (File | PTI) 
Nation

Sushma Swaraj says BJP will turn up poll heat on air strike sceptics

The February 26 air strike is at the centre of a political slugfest with some opposition parties demanding that the Narendra Modi government furnish proof of its efficacy.

From our online archive

MUMBAI: The BJP will use leaflets to ask people whether they would vote for parties that questioned the valour of the country's armed forces in connection with the February 26 air strike and the aerial engagement with Pakistan fighter jets the next day.

Speaking at a gathering of the BJP's women workers here on Sunday, senior leader and External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj signalled that the military action against Pakistan after the February 14 Pulwama attack would be a poll issue for the ruling party.

"We should ask questions about whether our jawans should count the dead bodies (after dropping bombs on terror camps) or return safely after carrying out the air strike. BJP workers should ask counter-questions to those who raise doubts about the impact of our air strike," Swaraj said.

The February 26 air strike is at the centre of a political slugfest with some opposition parties demanding that the Narendra Modi government furnish proof of its efficacy in terms of terrorist casualties at the Jaish-e-Mohammed camp that was bombed.

"We (BJP) should ask questions like whether you (voter) will support parties that side with separatists. We should ask people whether they want to vote for those who question the valour of our jawans," she said.

"We will have two leaflets of which one will be about these logical counter statements. BJP workers should use it during the poll campaign. The other leaflet will be about government welfare schemes for women. The two leaflets will be made available soon," Swaraj said.

Pinarayi alone: The 81-year-old carrying the Left's fate in Kerala

As Vijay makes debut in Perambur amid discontent against sitting MLA, will Stalin's welfare schemes sway voters?

Rubio says US hopeful in private talks with Iranian leaders; claims 'internal fractures' within Islamic Republic

Day after transfer of over 250 govt officers, ECI removes four senior officials from Bengal CEO's office

Naxalism 'almost completely' eradicated from Bastar: Amit Shah tells LS ahead of March 31 deadline

SCROLL FOR NEXT