'Modi betrayed defence secret to boost BJP's fortunes'

The Congress on Saturday accused the Modi government of “betraying a defence secret” by disclosing India’s capability to shoot down satellites to boost its “sagging” electoral fortunes.

A day after the Election Commission gave a clean chit for announcing the results of the anti-satellite test through a televised address the nation, senior Congress leader P Chidambaram said the capability to shoot down a satellite had existed for many years.

“A wise government will keep the capability secret. Only a foolish government will disclose it and betray a defence secret,” Chidambaram said.

“Besides, why was it done now in the middle of an election campaign? Only to boost the sagging fortunes of the BJP,” the former Union Home Minister said.

In his address to the nation on Wednesday, the prime minister had announced the successful test-firing of India's anti-satellite (ASAT) missile, Mission Shakti, and highlighted the government's efforts to strengthen national security.

The opposition alleged the Prime Minister's address violated the election code - in place since the polls were announced earlier this month - as it could influence voters in the middle of the campaign.