In the wake of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 people, the Indian National Congress (INC) is facing internal turmoil as controversial remarks made by some of its leaders have ignited a political firestorm. The statements, which appeared to deviate from the party's official stance on the attack and its implications, have drawn sharp criticism from both within and outside the party, prompting the Congress leadership to issue a "gag order" in an attempt to control the narrative.

Several Congress leaders have made statements that have stirred controversy. Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah questioned the necessity of war with Pakistan. Other Congress leaders, including Vijay Wadettiwar, have questioned claims made by victims' families that terrorists inquired about their religion before the killings, raising doubts about the religious angle of the attack. Saifuddin Soz, a Congress leader from Jammu and Kashmir, suggested that India should accept Pakistan's denial of involvement in the attack, at least initially, and rely on Indian investigating agencies.

These remarks have not gone unnoticed. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has seized upon the opportunity to attack the Congress, accusing its leaders of speaking "Pakistan's language" and attempting to give the neighboring country a clean chit. BJP leaders have also alleged that the Congress is weakening India's stand globally by allowing irresponsible statements that can be misused by Pakistan.

The Congress leadership, seemingly caught off guard by the fallout from these remarks, has moved to contain the damage. The party has distanced itself from the controversial comments, asserting that only the views expressed by the Congress Working Committee (CWC), party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Rahul Gandhi, and authorized All India Congress Committee (AICC) office-bearers represent the party's official position. Jairam Ramesh, Congress General Secretary, emphasized this point, stating that individual leaders' statements do not reflect the INC's views.

Sources indicate that Kharge and Gandhi are upset with leaders speaking against party lines on the Pahalgam terror attack. The party leadership has made it clear that any future communication on the Pahalgam issue must strictly adhere to the Congress's stated position.

The situation highlights the challenges the Congress faces in maintaining a unified front on sensitive issues such as national security and terrorism. The party is attempting to strike a delicate balance between demonstrating national solidarity, holding the government accountable, and retaining its ideological commitment to inclusive nationalism in an increasingly polarized political landscape.