Congress crushed India's defence might post-independence": PM Modi's scathing attack in Lok Sabha
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday launched a fierce attack on the Congress party in the Lok Sabha, accusing it of deliberately dismantling India's once-thriving indigenous defence manufacturing industry after Independence.
“There was a time when Bharat was at the top in defence manufacturing. We made the world’s finest swords and equipment. But post-Independence, Congress deliberately dismantled this capability,” the Prime Minister declared, evoking India’s historical legacy in arms production.
Modi contrasted India’s ancient military prowess with the self-reliant India of today, stating, “On one side, India is moving towards Aatmanirbharta, while on the other, Congress keeps leaning on Pakistan even for its political narratives.”
He lauded the Indian Armed Forces and hailed the success of Operation Sindoor as a testament to India’s growing indigenous capabilities. “If we hadn’t spent the last decade building a self-reliant defence infrastructure, the cost during Operation Sindoor could have been devastating,” Modi said.
The Prime Minister pointed out that Made-in-India drones, missiles, and systems were used in the cross-border operation, which dealt a decisive blow to terror hideouts inside Pakistan.
“From Sindoor to Sindhu, the world witnessed the scale of our action. Our enemies now know — India will strike on its own terms, in its own time,” he declared.
Citing international support during the operation, Modi said, “193 countries in the United Nations stood with India. Only three supported Pakistan.” Yet, he expressed disappointment over the domestic political response: “The world supported India, but, unfortunately, our soldiers’ bravery did not receive Congress's support.”
He further criticised the Opposition for questioning military actions. “Earlier, they asked for proof after surgical strikes; now they question why the strike was stopped. Their pattern is clear — they only want to oppose,” Modi said, adding, “Congress’s trust seems to be remotely controlled from Pakistan.”
The Prime Minister’s speech marked one of his sharpest criticisms of the Congress party's defence legacy, reiterating his government’s commitment to strengthening India’s military self-reliance.