Why is Rahul Gandhi Hell Bent on Breaking the Morale of Armed Forces? S Jaishankar Takes on Congress on India's Indigenous Capabilities

In a sharp response to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's recent criticism, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar accused him of playing into the hands of Pakistani propaganda while undermining India's indigenous defense capabilities.

Why are you more interested in playing Pakistani propaganda over the information provided by our government? Are the global agents controlling Congress so intimidated by our indigenous defense tech that they have asked you to downplay it? https://t.co/k763aqfGLb

— S.Jayashankar (@jaypanicker) May 19, 2025

Gandhi had posted on X (formerly Twitter) on May 19, stating:

“EAM Jaishankar’s silence isn’t just telling — it’s damning. So I’ll ask again: How many Indian aircraft did we lose because Pakistan knew?”

Quoting this, Jaishankar fired back with a pointed counter:

“Why are you more interested in playing Pakistani propaganda over the information provided by our government? Are the global agents controlling Congress so intimidated by our indigenous defense tech that they have asked you to downplay it?”

The minister’s response signals growing frustration within the government over what it perceives as Congress's repeated attempts to discredit national security institutions and India's growing technological self-reliance. 

 S Jaishankar Takes on Congress on India's Indigenous Capabilities

The remarks come at a time when the government is increasingly highlighting indigenous defense projects like the Tejas fighter jet and other DRDO-backed systems as symbols of national pride. The BJP has accused the Congress of sowing doubt and spreading narratives that could demoralize the armed forces.

While Rahul Gandhi has maintained that his questions are aimed at ensuring transparency and accountability, critics argue that his public statements are increasingly being used by hostile foreign elements to question India’s defense preparedness.

With elections looming and national security once again a major campaign theme, this exchange underscores the deepening political divide over how India’s defense achievements are portrayed — both at home and abroad.