MNS vs BJP: Amit Thackeray questions Tiranga Yatra celebrations post-Operation Sindoor

Amit (left) with his father, Raj Thackeray. Pic/Kirti Surve Parade

The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) are at odds again, this time over the Tiranga Yatra. MNS chief Raj Thackeray's son, Amit, has written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi questioning the need for such celebrations, which prompted BJP leader Ashish Shelar to defend the rallies, calling them a tribute to and morale booster for the Indian Armed Forces.

In a veiled reference to the BJP's Tiranga Yatra and the Congress's Jai Hind Sabhas, which hail Operation Sindoor, Amit wrote a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging the latter to restrain political outfits from conducting such celebration rallies.

On April 22, 26 people were killed in a terror attack at Pahalgam. In retaliation for the terror strike, India's military launched an attack on terrorist camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). It was Modi who coined the name of the operation.

Ceasefire announced

After its air bases were damaged, Pakistan requested that the military action be stopped, and a ceasefire was announced between the two countries. After this development, everyone has been hailing the Indian army and celebrating its success by organising rallies.

In his letter to the PM, Amit praised the Indian Armed Forces for their valour, but termed the cessation of hostilities between India and Pakistan a ceasefire, not a victory.

He categorically mentioned that, knowing Pakistan, it is not wise to let down one's guard. "This is not a victory, but merely a ceasefire. It would not be appropriate to celebrate the ceasefire," Amit mentioned in his letter.

Amit also praised Modi for his leadership qualities and taking the nation to a new high, especially when it came to decisions taken in the interest of national security. However, the MNS chief's son also wrote, "If one has to do anything, it is to remain alert, boost the morale of soldiers' families, exhibit sensitivity towards the situation and not turn the entire exercise into a celebration."

Shelar's retort

Speaking to a mediaperson, Shelar said he did not want to reply or mention anyone's name, but would like to say that every Indian needs to stand in support of the Indian defence services. "The entire world is talking and praising Operation Sindoor. We will continue with rallies as our support and morale booster for the armed forces," Shelar added.

While the BJP has been organising the Tiranga Yatra, the Congress, not to be left behind, announced that Jai Hind Sabhas will take place across the nation from May 20 to May 30, to salute the valour and success of the Indian Armed Forces.

May 7
Day Operation Sindoor was initiated