Last Updated:
Former Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan triggered a massive controversy by claiming that India was defeated on the first day of Operation Sindoor.
Union Minister Shripad Naik (L) criticised ex-Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan’s remarks on Operation Sindoor. (PTI/File)
Union Minister of State for Power Shripad Naik slammed Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan over his recent remarks on Operation Sindoor, stating that making such comments publicly was detrimental to India and its armed forces.
Chavan, the former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, triggered a massive controversy by claiming that India was defeated on the first day of Operation Sindoor and Indian aircraft were shot down during the four-day conflict. He also questioned the need to maintain large military forces, stating that wars will be fought in the air.
Responding to a question from CNN-News18 on the controversy at a press conference, Shripad Naik said, “The truth comes out sooner or later. It is painful to hear such statements from leaders who have been in power for so many years. Such remarks do not suit them. Even the common public knows the reality.”
Naik further said opposing anything just for the sake of opposition was not right. “If there are shortcomings, they can be discussed across the table, but making such statements publicly is harmful for the country and for the armed forces. Whether an apology is offered or not makes no difference to the nation.”
Naik stressed that Operation Sindoor was executed on the strength of indigenous equipment. He also said India’s defence sector had undergone a structural transformation in 2025, which he dubbed the ‘Year of Reforms’.
“Prime Minister announced Mission Sudarshan Chakra, aimed at expanding air defence, counter-infiltration and offensive capabilities. By 2035, it will create a comprehensive security shield for public spaces across the country,” he added.
Chavan Defiant On His Remarks Amid Backlash
Chavan’s remarks triggered massive backlash, with several political leaders criticising him for insulting the country and the Indian Armed Forces. Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MP Praful Patel strongly objected to Chavan’s statement, calling it “baseless” and inappropriate coming from a senior leader.
“Why do Congress leaders, without exception, end up speaking the language of Pakistan?” said BJP leader Amit Malviya. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi also rejected the claims, saying she places her trust in the Indian Army and that the country delivered a strong and appropriate response to Pakistan under Operation Sindoor.
Despite the criticism, Chavan remained defiant in his stance and refused to apologise for his remarks. “I have the right to ask questions, why should I apologise? It is out of the question. The Constitution gives me the right to ask questions,” he said when asked about his comments.
India’s Operation Sindoor on May 7 came as a response to the barbaric terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam on April 22, in which 26 tourists were gunned down by Pakistan-linked terrorists. This prompted India to respond militarily by targeting terror hideouts in Pakistan using Rafale jets, SCALP missiles, and HAMMER bombs, eliminating over 100 terrorists.
Click here to add News18 as your preferred news source on Google. December 18, 2025, 13:57 IST
Read More
