Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma has accused the Congress party of committing a “historic blunder” that allowed Pakistan to become a nuclear-armed nation. In a post on X, Sarma claimed that India had intelligence and military backing to neutralize Pakistan’s nuclear ambitions in the 1980s, but political hesitation led to inaction.
Sarma’s Allegations Against Congress
- RAW Intelligence: India’s Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) had confirmed Pakistan’s uranium enrichment activities at the Kahuta facility.
- Israeli Offer: Israel reportedly offered assistance, including joint strike planning and actionable intelligence.
- Missed Opportunity: Sarma alleged that Indira Gandhi hesitated, fearing international fallout, while Rajiv Gandhi prioritized diplomacy over deterrence.
- Nuclear Agreement: In 1988, Rajiv Gandhi signed a no-strike nuclear agreement with Benazir Bhutto, pledging mutual restraint on attacking each other’s nuclear installations.
The Fallout of India’s Inaction
- Pakistan tested nuclear weapons in 1998, pulling India into a costly nuclear arms race.
- Kargil conflict, proxy terror wars, and cross-border strikes have since occurred under Pakistan’s nuclear shield.
- Sarma claimed that Pakistan continues to use nuclear blackmail to deter international intervention.
Political Reactions & Future Outlook
- Sarma’s remarks have sparked debate over India’s past foreign policy decisions.
- He also criticized CPI (M), alleging that the party promised to roll back India’s nuclear deterrent in its 2024 manifesto.
Sarma’s claims have reignited discussions on India’s strategic decisions in the 1980s and their long-term impact on national security.
