Congress made 'historic blunder' letting Pakistan go nuclear: Assam CM Sarma

Guwahati: Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on Saturday accused the Congress of committing a "historic blunder" by allowing Pakistan to become a nuclear state, alleging that India had the capability, intelligence and international support to launch a pre-emptive strike in the 1980s, but failed to act due to political hesitation.

In a post on X, Sarma said: "At a time when nations today act decisively to neutralise nuclear threats, India's tragic inaction during the 1980s remains a cautionary tale of what could have been-and what wasn't. RAW had solid intelligence confirming Pakistan's uranium enrichment activities at the Kahuta facility."

He added: "Israel offered to help-from actionable intel to joint strike planning. Jamnagar Air Base was shortlisted as a potential launchpad. The Indian military gave full backing to a pre-emptive airstrike on Kahuta. India had the capability and consensus to eliminate the threat before it became reality."


Sarma went on to say: "Yet at the last minute: Indira Gandhi hesitated, fearing international fallout. Rajiv Gandhi shelved the plan, prioritising diplomacy over deterrence under foreign pressure."

Sarma also targeted the CPM, saying: "To this day, Pakistan uses nuclear blackmail to deter international action and legitimise its rogue behaviour. Shockingly, in 2024, key INDIA bloc ally CPM promised in its manifesto to roll back India's nuclear deterrent if brought to power."