Cong questions Modi govt's strategy on terrorism

The Congress on Sunday questioned Narendra Modi government’s strategy for putting a curb on terror attacks, saying the party stood by the security personnel who were engaged in a fierce gunbattle to neutralise the terrorists holed up at the IAF base in Pathankot, Punjab.

The party, however, pointed out that it was not the time to “play politics”, suggesting that Delhi must not hold any dialogue with Islamabad, “unless and until” Pakistan changes its policy towards India and stops sponsoring of terror against India from its soil.

“They (Modi government) have no strategy at all. They (Modi government) have no clear cut road to deal with state sponsored terror from Pakistan. After forming a coalition government at the centre, the BJP has taken a complete U-turn from its stand in past,” All India Congress Committee general secretary and in-charge of Punjab Shakeel Ahmed said.

He described the terror attack as “unfortunate” and noted that this was second such incident in Punjab within six moths, demanding that the Modi government must “do every thing at its command” to stop recurrence of such incidents.

“We do not want to indulge in any politics at this moment of crisis. Our brave security personnel are engaged in a battle with terrorists to protect our country at the cost of their life. Nothing should be said at this moment to demoralise their efforts and sacrifice.

Party stands behind these brave-hearts. Prime minister must do everything to stop recurrence of such incidents,” he added.

Ahmed said he was scheduled to visit Punjab on Tuesday to take stock of the situation.

“I will hold a meeting with our Punjab Congress Committee chief Amrinder Singh and discuss the prevailing situation. And, I will also visit the spot in (Pathankot) if permission is granted by the authorities. I heard that civilians are not being allowed to enter the affected area at present,” he told Deccan Herald.