"Foundation of terrorism not only in India but the entire world (was laid) when three terrorists were let loose by a soft government led by the BJP," Congress spokesperson Tom Vadakkan told reporters.
Accusing the BJP of practising "false nationalism" and "fake patriotism", he said it was a fact that the "base" of terrorism not only in India but the world was laid with the release of the three ultras.
"Congress demands that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP apologise unconditionally to the nation for having aided, abetted and favoured anti-India elements, terrorists and criminals," the Congress spokesperson said.
"They should apologise for having ensured that terrorists were released and flown to safe havens in Pakistan so that they carry on bleeding India," he said.
Three hardcore terrorists including Maulana Masood Azhar were released in exchange for the freedom of the passengers of the hijacked Indian Airlines plane in 1999.
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