Robert Vadra Sparks Controversy Linking Pahalgam Terror Attack to BJP’s Hindutva Agenda
Businessman and Congress leader Robert Vadra, husband of MP Priyanka Gandhi, triggered a political storm on Wednesday by connecting the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir — which claimed the lives of 26 civilians — to the alleged marginalisation of minorities in India under the Modi-led BJP government.
“If you dissect this terrorist act that took place, if they (terrorists) are looking at people’s identity, why are they doing this? Because there’s a divide that has come about in our country with Hindus and Muslims … and Christians… The minorities are feeling weakened,” Vadra said.
Vadra argued the attack sent a message to the Prime Minister and pointed out the increasing vulnerability of minorities. He urged the government to ensure security and maintain secularism.
“I see that the minorities are sidelined. When they are praying, they are not allowed to do so on their roofs. If they are in abundance praying on a Thursday or Friday and there is a spillover on the road, they are stopped… there are surveys of mosques,” he added.
Opposition Criticism and Parallels with Pakistan
While the Opposition condemned the attack and extended condolences, Vadra’s linking of the terror act to religious discrimination prompted backlash. Critics accused him of “speaking the language of Pakistan.”
His comments bore resemblance to recent remarks by Pakistan’s Army chief General Syed Asim Munir Ahmed Shah, who called Kashmir the “jugular vein” of Pakistan at the Overseas Pakistanis Convention in Islamabad.
Munir invoked the two-nation theory, underlining differences between Hindus and Muslims in culture and ideology.
“Our religions are different, our customs are different, our traditions are different, our thoughts are different, our ambitions are different. That was the foundation of the two-nation theory,” Munir said.
There is speculation that Munir’s speech, made in the presence of Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, may have influenced The Resistance Front (TRF) to target tourists based on religion in Baisaran near Pahalgam.
BJP Condemns Vadra’s Comments
The BJP condemned Vadra’s remarks, calling them an attempt to politicise a national tragedy.
“Robert Vadra’s remarks are completely condemnable,” said BJP national spokesperson Nalin Kohli. “This is the same language that terrorists always use to justify their terrorism.”
Tarun Chugh, BJP general secretary, questioned if Vadra was echoing the rhetoric of anti-national elements.
“Robert Vadra’s statements are not only ignorant but dangerous… he has exposed the deeply problematic mindset within the Gandhi family,” Chugh said.
Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla accused Congress of defending “Pakistan-sponsored Islamic Jihad,” while CR Kesavan labelled Vadra’s words “unpardonable” and “indefensible.”
“Is he a proxy for Pakistan, or is he a proxy for murderers/terrorists? Because he seems to be speaking the language of terrorists…” Kesavan said in a video.
Vadra Clarifies, Says Remarks Are Personal
Vadra later clarified that his remarks reflected his personal opinion, not that of the Congress party or his family.
“As is said terrorism does not look at any kind of religion. But .. I feel that whenever in a country there are communal issues, people feel vulnerable,” he said. “There is a division and we see that in our country.”
He cited instances where minorities face restrictions during religious practices, suggesting such actions foster division and exploitation by hostile neighbours.
“When Muslims are praying for their Gods, they are stopped. If we are not united, we are going to be vulnerable and any bordering country will take advantage of this,” Vadra added.
He also said that he had previously been summoned by the Enforcement Directorate after speaking up for minorities but would continue to raise his voice against injustice.
BJP Demands Apology and Party Clarification
BJP demanded an apology from Vadra and asked the Congress to clarify its stance.
“On the one hand Congress president says the party is with the government, while on the other, Robert Vadra questions the cause of the terror attack,” Kohli said.
Amit Malviya, head of BJP’s IT department, called Vadra’s remarks “shocking,” accusing him of “shamelessly defending an act of terror.”
Vadra Urges Unity, Visits Victim’s Family
Vadra said he would personally visit the family of a victim from Karnal and called on the Centre to support the people of Jammu and Kashmir economically in the aftermath of the attack.
“We have to really unite together and stand together and that’s when we will not be vulnerable from any attacks,” he said, urging the central government to provide jobs to those who depended on tourism for their livelihood.
The Attack
The terror attack took place in Baisaran near Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where terrorists opened fire, killing 26 individuals — mostly tourists — and injuring many more.
