In a veiled critique that may stir debate within his own party, senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid has questioned the politicization of national efforts, asking, “Is it so difficult to be patriotic?” His remark comes as part of his participation in a high-profile all-party delegation tasked with presenting India’s firm stance against terrorism on the global stage.
Khurshid, who is currently in Malaysia as part of the international delegation following visits to Indonesia, South Korea, Japan, and Singapore, expressed concern over domestic political discourse overshadowing the mission’s purpose.
“When on a mission against terrorism to carry India’s message to the world, it’s distressing that people at home are calculating political allegiances. Is it so difficult to be patriotic?” Khurshid posted on X (formerly Twitter).
His comments arrive just days after he publicly supported the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir—another stance that set him apart from the broader Congress position.
Though Khurshid did not name any individuals, his remarks appear to indirectly address internal party criticisms. The Congress party has reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the selection process for the delegation, alleging that the government sidelined its leaders in the nomination phase.
Adding to the intra-party friction, Khurshid’s post came on the heels of a controversial statement by Congress MP Jairam Ramesh, who said, “MPs are roaming, and terrorists are also roaming.” The comment sparked strong backlash from the BJP, which labeled it “atrocious.”
Clarifying his stance in an interview with ANI, Khurshid emphasized the importance of unity across party lines when representing the nation internationally.
“People ask, ‘What are you doing in a delegation with BJP members?’ Well, we are here for the country. Regardless of political affiliation, what India needs now is one voice in support of the nation,” Khurshid said.
“My question—‘Is it so difficult to be a patriot?’—is directed at those making dismissive remarks when we are trying to do something in the national interest,” he added.
The delegation, led by JD(U) MP Sanjay Kumar Jha, includes representatives from multiple parties, such as BJP’s Brij Lal, Pradan Baruah, Hemang Joshi, and Aparajita Sarangi; TMC’s Abhishek Banerjee; CPI(M)’s John Brittas; and Congress members Mohan Kumar and Salman Khurshid.
Their mission follows Operation Sindoor and the Pahalgam terror attack, aiming to strengthen global awareness of India’s fight against terrorism.
