BENGALURU, 27 April 

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah clarified that his statement on war with Pakistan was misinterpreted. Siddaramaiah said he did not completely rule out war but meant it should be a last resort, as war is not the solution.

This comes after Pakistani media highlighted his earlier remark, made in response to the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack, that 'there is no need for a war with Pakistan.'

BJP sharply criticised the statement, accusing Siddaramaiah of downplaying national security concerns.

Reiterating his stand, Siddaramaiah said there were intelligence lapses and security failures behind the terror attack, which claimed 26 lives. He stressed that providing security to tourists is the Centre’s responsibility.

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar distanced himself from the controversy, stating he would not comment on Siddaramaiah’s remarks, but emphasised that the unity, peace, and integrity of the nation are paramount.

He said the Congress had taken a decision to support any decisions taken by the Centre against Pakistan.

Leader of Opposition R Ashoka accused Siddaramaiah of behaving like a 'puppet' of an enemy nation. In an X post, he remarked that Pakistan might bestow its highest civilian honour on the Chief Minister for advocating peace.

Former chief minister BS Yediyurappa demanded an apology, while BJP State President BY Vijayendra alleged that Siddaramaiah’s comments were driven by minority appeasement. 

Union Minister Pralhad Joshi condemned Siddaramaiah’s tone, claiming Congress leaders have a habit of speaking lightly about national issues without understanding ground realities.

BJP IT Cell Chief Amit Malviya accused Congress of rushing to Pakistan’s defence. 

Cong stands with Centre: Kharge

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Sunday reaffirmed his party's full support for the central government’s actions against the perpetrators of the Pahalgam terror attack. He emphasised the importance of unity in protecting the country and said that the government should take everyone into confidence to move forward effectively.

Kharge also expressed disappointment over Prime Minister Narendra Modi's absence at Thursday's all-party meeting convened to discuss the attack, stating that it was not right for the PM to skip the meeting. He reiterated that religion and language should come after national interest, urging collective action for the welfare of the country.

While criticising some individuals for politicising the issue, Kharge stated that discussions at the meeting should not be publicly disclosed for national security reasons. He called for unity and cooperation to address the crisis. PTI