KKN Gurugram Desk | West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent comments regarding Operation Sindoor, a military operation that had been carried out in response to alleged terrorist activities in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Speaking to reporters at the state secretariat, Mamata made sharp remarks suggesting that Modi should focus on addressing issues within his own family before making comments on national security.

Her response came after Modi’s public statements about the surgical strike and the military actions taken by India, which have been a point of political contention.

PM Modi’s Controversial Statement on Operation Sindoor

On the evening of May 29, 2025, during a speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had praised India’s military for its precision in Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist hideouts in Pakistan. He emphasized the resolve of the Indian Armed Forces and made remarks about ensuring that such operations were done without external intervention, highlighting India’s growing military supremacy.

PM Modi also referenced Pakistan’s response to the operation, stating that the country had been forced into a defensive position, and underscoring India’s capability to launch swift and calculated military actions.

Mamata Banerjee’s Retort: Focus on Domestic Issues

Mamata Banerjee, known for her candid political style and critical stance toward the BJP-led central government, responded with a biting remark. In her press interaction, she stated:

“The comments made by Prime Minister Modi today are not just shocking but also unfortunate. Before commenting on such matters, he should first address the issues within his own house. He should look at what’s happening within his own circles before making such statements.”

Her comment is likely a reference to ongoing domestic political issues involving the BJP leadership, which has faced criticism for several internal matters, including governance challenges and political scandals.

Political Context of Mamata Banerjee’s Remarks

Mamata Banerjee has been one of the most vocal critics of PM Modi and his governance model. Over the years, she has consistently opposed the BJP’s stance on issues like state autonomy, federalism, and centralized governance. Her remarks, therefore, seem to align with her broader political narrative, challenging Modi’s leadership and questioning the central government’s handling of both internal and external matters.

The History of Political Rivalry Between Mamata Banerjee and PM Modi

The relationship between Mamata Banerjee and Narendra Modi has always been strained, with frequent clashes over issues of state governance, federalism, and ideological differences. Mamata’s Trinamool Congress (TMC) has been at odds with the BJP, particularly in West Bengal, where elections have seen intense competition between the two parties.

In the past, Mamata has accused PM Modi’s government of undermining the federal structure and exerting undue influence on state matters. Additionally, she has consistently challenged the central government’s approach to national security and foreign policy, often calling for a more balanced approach in dealing with external threats.

Operation Sindoor: A Quick Overview

Operation Sindoor was launched after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, a popular region in Jammu and Kashmir. The attack led to the deaths of several Indian soldiers and triggered an immediate response from India. The military operation, which lasted for several days, involved precision airstrikes and cross-border strikes targeting terrorist camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).

The operation showcased India’s military capabilities, with Prime Minister Modi and senior defense officials praising the precision and professionalism of the Indian Armed Forces. The operation was seen as a bold move, further intensifying the India-Pakistan tensions and signaling India’s resolve to protect its sovereignty.

Mamata Banerjee’s Critique of Modi’s National Security Strategy

While Mamata Banerjee’s comments on Operation Sindoor seem to focus on domestic issues, they also underline her stance on India’s national security strategy. The West Bengal Chief Minister has often expressed concern over the politicization of national security issues, particularly when such operations are used for political leverage.

“National Security Should Not Be Politicized”

Mamata’s critical approach stems from her belief that national security should not be politicized for electoral gains. Her party, the Trinamool Congress (TMC), has been vocal about how national security issues are sometimes used to distract from domestic governance challenges. She has argued that the safety and security of the nation should be a unifying issue that transcends political affiliations, and that it should not be exploited for political advantage.

“National security should be above politics. It should be a matter of national interest, not a tool to gain votes or manipulate public opinion,” Mamata stated.

BJP’s Response: Defending Modi’s Statement

In response to Mamata Banerjee’s remarks, the BJP has defended Prime Minister Modi’s statement on Operation Sindoor, describing it as a necessary and patriotic comment in light of the success of Indian armed forces in safeguarding the nation’s borders. BJP spokespersons have emphasized that Modi’s remarks were aimed at showing the nation’s strength in confronting external threats, and that his leadership was central to India’s military success.

The BJP has also dismissed Mamata’s remarks as political grandstanding, arguing that they were made to distract from the national unity that has been achieved under Modi’s leadership.

Mamata Banerjee’s Position on India’s Foreign Policy

Beyond her comments on national security, Mamata Banerjee has a long-standing stance on India’s foreign policy, particularly regarding its relationship with neighboring countries. She has often questioned the India-Pakistan relationship, advocating for peaceful dialogues and non-violent solutions.

Mamata’s approach is grounded in the belief that regional diplomacy should prioritize cooperation over conflict, something she has consistently emphasized in her political speeches. This sets her apart from Modi’s more aggressive foreign policy stance, particularly when it comes to countering terrorism from Pakistan.

The Broader Political Impact of Mamata’s Comments

Mamata Banerjee’s remarks are significant not just because they challenge Modi’s leadership, but because they tap into a broader political discourse about the role of opposition parties in addressing national security issues. As elections near, Mamata and other opposition leaders are likely to intensify their scrutiny of the BJP’s governance, particularly on issues that are seen as sensitive or polarizing.

While Modi’s popularity remains strong among many voters, Mamata’s comments reflect the growing discontent among opposition factions, who feel that the government’s handling of national security and internal governance is increasingly becoming a point of contention.

What’s Next for Mamata Banerjee and the Opposition?

As India approaches state and national elections, Mamata Banerjee is likely to continue challenging Modi’s foreign policy, especially as it pertains to national security issues. Her remarks about the politicization of military actions highlight a growing concern among opposition leaders that national security should not become a partisan issue.

A Divided Political Landscape

While Mamata’s comments represent a growing opposition front against Modi’s leadership, they also signify a deepening rift between regional parties and the central government. The political implications of this divide will likely be seen in the upcoming elections, as voters weigh the merits of strong leadership versus balanced governance.

Mamata Banerjee’s response to PM Modi’s remarks on Operation Sindoor brings to light the complexities of Indian politics, where national security is often a divisive issue. As India faces both internal and external challenges, the discourse surrounding military actions, foreign policy, and domestic governance will remain central to the political landscape.

The interaction between Mamata Banerjee and PM Modi on such issues underscores the political rivalry at play and sets the stage for an intense electoral battle in the coming years.