Congress insinuates armed forces of sexual violence, promises to amend AFSPA in its manifesto

As a part of the continuing series of desperate attempts by Congress to undermine the Armed Forces of this country, it has once again gone the same way it has been following since a long time. In the manifesto, the grand old party has claimed, among the many vague and impractical promises, that it would amend the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA). Not only that, in the same paragraph, Congress goes on to accuse the Armed Forces of sexual violence against the citizens of India. As shameless as this may be, it is going to harm India and our claims against our enemies in more ways than one.

The accusations in the manifesto give the Pakistani portrayal of the Indian Armed Forces a firm foundation, reinforcing their story of human rights violations in the valley. This manifesto is going to start a chain reaction in which India would be the sole sufferer. The common belief was that the Congress can’t go any further down to play its political game for some gains in the elections after they started hitting new lows every day, Sam Pitroda’s questions over the Balakot strikes and the intent behind it being the latest one. However, this is a rock bottom in the history of Indian politics. This country has never witnessed a major opposition party play such a dirty game involving the Armed Forces for a few votes. No wonder the same political party has a record of belittling the sovereignty of the country. If this party comes to power, one can imagine Kashmir getting added to ceded lands like Aksai Chin and Katchatheevu, that were once a part of this country.

It may be noted that AFSPA grants immunity to the soldiers who work in terribly volatile environments in the state of Jammu and Kashmir and Northeast India. Following the rules laid down in AFSPA is very much needed for the armed forces to operate freely.

This manifesto provides enough fodder to enemy countries like Pakistan and China to name and shame India at the international stage. Given the tension between India and Pakistan, this unfounded filth in the manifesto may give Pakistan an opportunity it was waiting for. Our enemy neighbor is always quick to react to such news. At a time when people of this country went through a rollercoaster ride of emotions, grief after the Pulwama attack and pride after the Balakot airstrike, Congress left no chance to shame the protectors of this country.

Now it is for the country and its voters to decide if they’d be safe when a party that enjoys playing in the hands of the enemies comes to power. With the elections ahead, this manifesto should prove to be the final nail in Congress’ coffin as the country which is filled with nationalistic pride has no tolerance towards any degradation in the reputation of its Armed Forces.