BJP slams Congress after Sam Pitroda says he “felt at home” in Pakistan, sparking debates amid terror tensions
According to the BJP, the Congress is backing Pakistan, undermining India, providing the go-ahead for attacks, and supporting the nation on important matters.
Aadrika Tayal 
New Delhi (India) September 19: Congress overseas chief Sam Pitroda's statement that he "felt at home" in Pakistan has sparked a heated response from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday. They said it was proof of the party's apparent soft spot for Islamabad.
Pitroda urges improved ties with neighbours
Pitroda is the leader of the Indian Overseas Congress. He states that India has to interact with Bangladesh and Pakistan despite the terrorism and violence in the area. Pitroda recalls his journeys to Bangladesh, Nepal, and Pakistan. He says he always felt at home there.
Sam says, “Our foreign policy must first focus on our neighbourhood. Can we really substantially improve relationships with our neighbours? They are all going through difficult times and there is no need to fight. There are issues of violence and terrorism, but in the neighbourhood there is a common gene pool.”
He also adds, “I have been to Pakistan, and I must tell you, I felt at home. I have been to Bangladesh, Nepal, and I feel at home. I don't feel like I am in a foreign country. They look like me, they talk like me, they like my songs, they eat my food. We must learn to live with them in peace and harmony.”
BJP links Pitroda’s remarks to UPA’s inaction post 26/11 attacks
The BJP responds sharply to Pitroda's comments. They compare them to the UPA's response to the 26/11 Mumbai tragedy. The incident which took 166 lives.
BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari says, "Rahul Gandhi's blue-eyed boy Sam Pitroda says he 'felt at home' in Pakistan. No wonder UPA took no tough action against Pakistan even after 26/11. Pakistan's favourite, Congress's chosen!” in a tweet on social media platform X.
Poonawalla accuses Congress of “undying love” for Pakistan
In response to Pitroda's comments, BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla claims that Congress has "undying love" for Pakistan. He mentions that they had apparently spoken with Hafiz Saeed via Yasin Malik.
Poonawalla writes, “Rahul Gandhi’s closest ally & leader, family friend Uncle Sam Pitroda (who said Hua to Hua for 1984 Anti Sikh Genocide), who made racially disgusting comments on Indians - says he feels at home in Pakistan. Why is it surprising - Congress has undying love for Pakistan. They even spoke to Hafiz Saeed via Yasin Malik!” on X.
Tensions rise after Pahalgam attack
Pitroda's demand to restore relations with Pakistan comes after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam. It claimed the lives of 25 tourists. The relationship is at its lowest point after the incident.
India has reduced diplomatic relationships with Pakistan after the incident. India also started Operation Sindoor to eliminate important terrorist camps located deep into Pakistan.
