Senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan criticized the BJP for naming military operations after Hindu symbols, alleging the party’s intent to inject Hindutva into all activities and polarize society along religious lines.
🛡️ “Hindu Names of Military Operations”: Ex‑Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan Slams BJP
Senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister of Maharashtra Prithviraj Chavan has launched a sharp critique against the BJP-led government, accusing them of aggressively integrating Hindutva symbolism into state affairs—particularly through warlike codenames such as Operation Mahadev and Operation Sindoor. The Times of IndiaThe WeekSuryaa
🔡 1. Mixing Faith with National Security
Addressing media and party workers on July 29, Chavan expressed concern over the BJP’s choice of “Hindu names” for military and counter-terror operations, arguing that it is an attempt to invoke emotional votes rather than substance—and risks alienating non-Hindu citizens.
“The government is mixing Hindutva in everything—including national defence,” he stated.
He specifically referenced Operation Mahadev—a joint mission by Army and CRPF—and Operation Sindoor, post‑Pahalgam strikes, accusing the BJP of leveraging symbolism over security. The WeekSuryaa
🧱 2. “Wars Are Not Won with Sentiments”
Chavan criticised the emotional branding of military missions, asserting:
“Battles should be fought with strategy and arms—not with emotions.”
He accused leaders of expecting sentimental returns from operation codenames, not actual operational strength. SuryaaThe Week
This comment stems from growing unease among Congress ranks over the conflation of religious rhetoric with military narratives.
⚡ 3. Political Reactions & BJP Backlash
BJP spokesperson Tuhin A. Sinha strongly pushed back on Chavan’s remarks, calling them “shameful.” He said:
“Chavan claimed the name Operation Sindoor was selected for sentimental gain… But terrorists have tried to erase the ‘sindoor’ of our mothers and sisters for years. Now they’ll stay in fear.” Suryaa
Sinha’s rebuttal underscores the defensive posture of the ruling party amid rising ideological pushback.
🌐 4. Broader Context: Chavan’s Critique of Government Diplomacy
Chavan has also raised concerns about broader issues including India’s diplomatic efforts during Operation Sindoor. In June, he described the outreach as “unsuccessful,” questioning whether the high-visibility all-party delegation abroad achieved tangible results. He advocated a special session of Parliament to ensure democratic oversight and strategic clarity. @mathrubhumiThe Times of India
At one event, Chavan even challenged the RSS—asking whether the ideological group supports the government’s decisions and ceasefire policy. The Times of India
🧭 5. Why It Matters
| Issue | Significance |
|---|---|
| Secularism in Strategy | Using Hindu deities or symbols as codenames risks alienating religious minorities. |
| Political Messaging | Critics see operation names as politically motivated emotional appeals rather than neutral strategic terms. |
| Democratic Oversight | Chavan pushed for greater parliamentary scrutiny to ensure alignment of military actions with national interest. |
| Ideological Disagreements | Reflects deeper tension between Congress’s secular outlook and BJP’s Hindutva-aligned messaging. |
🧠 Final Thoughts
Prithviraj Chavan’s forceful critique marks a crossover between political symbolism and military affairs—warning against the politicisation of national security. His remarks highlight growing unease over whether India’s strategic decisions are being shaped by ideological narratives rather than hard-nosed strategy and democratic consensus.
