Cong questions Shah’s claim of 250 casualties

New Delhi, March 4

Ahead of the declaration of 17th General Election, the Congress today went all out to accuse the BJP of politicising the Indian Air Force strikes on Pakistan and questioned the ruling party chief’s claims of 250 casualties across the border.

“The Vice Air Marshal declined to comment on casualties. The MEA statement said there were no civilian or military casualties. So, who put out the number of casualties as 300-350?” P Chidambaram tweeted, adding Congress chief Rahul Gandhi was the “first to salute the IAF  for its splendid achievement.” He said: “As a proud citizen I am prepared to believe my government. But if we want the world to believe, the government must make the effort, not indulge in Opposition-bashing.”

The Congress for its part searched for ways to steer the pre-poll narrative back to BJP’s governance failures. To this end, it fielded top leaders to needle the government. “Is international media: 1) New York Times 2) London based Jane’s Information Group 3) Washington Post 4) Daily Telegraph 5) The Guardian 6) Reuters reporting no proof of militant losses at Balakot pro-Pakistan? You are guilty of politicizing terror?” was Kapil Sibal’s take. — TNS

Mr Prime Minister, I had myself inaugurated the Amethi ordnance factory in 2010. Since some years, small arms were being manufactured here. But you went to Amethi and lied, true to your habit. Are you not at all ashamed of yourself? — Rahul Gandhi, Congress President