Nirupam’s remarks on Army strikes may queer Cong’s poll pitch: Party leaders

After city Congress president Sanajay Nirupam termed the surgical strikes across the Line of Control

After city Congress president Sanajay Nirupam termed the surgical strikes across the Line of Control ‘fake’, the party insiders felt that his remarks will cost them dearly in the upcoming civic elections.

Nirupam, a three-time Member of Parliament, later clarified that his remarks were against politicians, not the armed forces. (Hindustan Times)

The statement has reportedly been taken very seriously by the party high command.

Nirupam, a three-time Member of Parliament, later clarified that his remarks were against politicians, not the armed forces. He also claimed to have received a threat from an underworld gangster, while his wife, Geeta, wrote a letter to the Prime Minister, saying that the family feels ‘unsafe’.

After the controversy, the Congress distanced itself from its city chief. “The party was already reeling under the infighting and factionalism. We have been trying to put up a united show after Rahul Gandhi intervened and warned all the senior leaders against factionalism few months ago. But such controversies (like Nirupam’s remarks) have been damaging the party very badly,” said a party leader on the condition of anonymity.

Another leader from anti-Nirupam camp said that the city chief should have been more cautious while talking about the emotive issue. “We were expecting a little gain after Shiv Sena’s cartoon goof-up. But his uncalled for remarks negated the advantage,” he added.

“I have explained the entire episode and intention behind the statements to the party high command. I never questioned the integrity of the Indian soldiers. I had raised questions about the BJP’s attempt to cash in on the bravery of our soldiers. I don’t think the remarks would affect the party performance in the polls,” Nirupam told HT.

The factionalism within the Congress had surfaced earlier this year when his arch rivals demanded his ouster for criticising party leader, including Sonia Gandhi.