Pitroda kick-started Pak national day celeberations: Modi; Cong says PM playing politics

An all-out political slugfest broke out on Friday after Congress leader Sam Pitroda questioned the government's aggressive action against Pakistan post-Pulwama terror strike, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi lambasting the Opposition, saying the remarks only reflect that the Congress was unwilling to respond to forces of terror.

Leading the BJP charge, Modi also said Pitroda, Congress president Rahul Gandhi's "most trusted advisor and guide", has kick-started the Pakistan's 'National Day' celebrations on behalf of his party, "ironically by demeaning India's armed forces".

Pakistan celebrates its 'National Day' on March 23.

Countering Modi's tirade, Congress chief spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said, "the truth is that Prime Minister Modi is hiding behind the valour and bravery of our Army and Air Force, and is playing politics on the opinion of an individual leader, which is his personal opinion and not of the party. He is playing such politics as he does not wish to reply on the charges of corruption against him and his government."
Taking on the Congress while reacting to Pitroda's remarks, Modi posted a series of tweets using the hashtag 'Janta Maaf Nahi Karegi' (people will not forgive), and said, "Loyal courtier of Congress' royal dynasty admits what the nation already knew- Congress was unwilling to respond to forces of terror. This is a New India- we will answer terrorists in a language they understand and with interest!"
At a press conference, Surjewala said, "Whether it is Pitroda or any individual, such comments may be their personal opinion and the Congress has nothing to do with them."
Latching onto Pitroda's comments, Shah tweeted, "Difference between the Opposition and BJP is clear. They suspect our army, we are proud of our army. Their heart beats for terrorists, ours beats for the Tiranga. This election, through the power of your vote, do a surgical strike on the Congress culture."
Union minister Sushma Swaraj also tweeted, "Sam Pitroda - I am shocked to see your remarks. The whole world is with us in our fight against terror except few like you and your patrons."