Eknath Shinde Slams Critics Of Operation Sindoor, Calls Rahul Gandhi A 'Pakistani Agent'

Last Updated:June 19, 2025, 22:25 IST

Shinde called out critics who questioned how many fighter jets were downed during last month’s military exchange with Islamabad

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde. (PTI file photo)

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde on Thursday hit out at critics of Operation Sindoor, India’s military action against Pakistan in response to the Pahalgam terror attack, and called Congress leader Rahul Gandhi a “Pakistani agent".

Speaking at the party’s foundation day event at NSCI Dome in Worli, Shinde slammed those questioning last month’s military operation, calling their remarks “equivalent to treason".

“We are proud of Operation Sindoor. These people doubt our Army, they don’t trust our forces but believe the Army chief of Pakistan instead. Instead of saluting the bravery of our soldiers, they’re asking about the damage to our weapons. Raising such questions is equal to treason. They are acting like Pakistani agents — Rahul Gandhi and others," Shinde told the crowd.

He further stated that those questioning the armed forces were “speaking the language of Pakistan".

“Those who are questioning our armed forces and asking how many jets we lost — are you speaking Pakistan’s language?" Shinde said in a sharp rebuke.

He further questioned the intent behind such criticism, adding, “Is all you want a certificate of recognition or an award from Pakistan?"

Shinde Mocks Rival Shiv Sena (UBT)

Shinde also mocked the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) faction as it celebrated its 59th foundation day, a splinter group formed in 2022 after Shinde’s rebellion.

“At one place, an event is being held by those who compromised Hindutva for the sake of power, while here we are holding an event rooted in the ideology of late Balasaheb Thackeray," he said.

He accused the UBT faction of abandoning Hindutva and Thackeray’s legacy, describing their current condition as desperate: “They are running around for alliances… pleading, ‘please form an alliance with us.’"

Shinde continued: “Now that elections are near, they suddenly remember Hindutva and the Marathi Manus. This only exposes their hypocrisy."

He further taunted, “Why try to defeat someone who is already dead? The people already declared you politically finished in the Assembly."

The Shinde-led Shiv Sena marked the day with a rally at the NSCI Dome, while Shiv Sena (UBT) held a separate celebration at Shanmukhananda Hall.

News politics Eknath Shinde Slams Critics Of Operation Sindoor, Calls Rahul Gandhi A 'Pakistani Agent'