Myanmar operation silences Congress charge of PM Modi being soft on terror

NEW DELHI: The covert action in Myanmar could blunt the Congress offensive against PM Narendra Modi that his chest size did not match up to his response to terror, a recurring theme in the opposition assault since the change of government. It was fast turning from a strong suit to soft underbelly for BJP as guns boomed on the western borders and Maoists seemed to be getting bolder. Though Modi has positioned himself as a "strongman", hitting a shrill pitch during the poll campaign, the events unfolding failed to square up to the claims.

The latest being the killing of 18 soldiers in Manipur. But the response of the Army to the Manipur attack has changed the narrative dramatically, with Modi at the centre of an assertive Indian position on terror. It is being cited as an unprecedented as well as robust response with praise coming in from all quarters. The mood is likely to help BJP consolidate its appeal with the electorate, the biggest advantage being that the rivals may not be able to go on the offensive on terror in the near future.

There was a sense of a "missed opportunity" in Congress, having ruled for 10 years till 2014. The party urged the government not to overplay the issue for taking credit. Congress leader Ajay Maken said an agreement was signed in 2010 which allowed the Indian Army to enter Myanmar if the situation so required. AICC spokesman Randeep Surjewala said, "The credit for this offensive lies solely with the brave officers and jawans."

BJP was quick to retaliate that Indian forces were always good but missing was the "strong leadership", reiterating its "weak PM" charge against former premier Manmohan Singh.

It is a moment to relish for the saffron camp but the postMyanmar situation has a flip side. The milking of the raids with round-the-clock TV is bound to raise expectations of a "muscular" response at every sight of a terror attack.The worst could be in