Congress Leader Ajay Rai’s ‘Toy Rafale’ Mockery Sparks Row, Finds Echo in Pakistani Media

Key Highlights:

• Ajay Rai used a toy Rafale jet to mock the government’s anti-terror policy.
• BJP MPs say Congress remarks are boosting enemy propaganda.
• Reference to lemons and chillies was a jab at 2019 Rafale puja.
• Pakistani media coverage has escalated domestic political backlash.
• BJP accuses Congress of eroding armed forces’ morale and aiding Pakistan’s narrative.

BJP Accuses Congress of Undermining Military Morale, Citing ‘Pro-Pakistan’ Allegations

New Delhi – A political storm erupted. Uttar Pradesh Congress chief Ajay Rai mocked the government’s handling of national security. He brandished a toy Rafale jet during a press event. These remarks soon found traction in Pakistani media. This intensified the row between the BJP and Congress.

The incident unfolded amid rising tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack. It drew swift condemnation from BJP leaders. They accused the Congress of weakening the morale of India’s armed forces and enabling enemy narratives.

Toy Jet Symbolism Sparks Controversy

Rai criticized the central government for what he called its inaction against terrorism. He referenced the recent attack in Pahalgam, where several Indian soldiers lost their lives.

“They talk big about fighting terrorism. They bought Rafale jets, but those aircraft are just sitting in hangars decorated with lemons and chillies,” Rai said, holding a miniature Rafale aircraft adorned with traditional talismans.

His reference was a direct jab at the 2019 traditional ‘puja’ ceremony performed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. Singh placed lemons beneath the wheels of India’s first Rafale jet during its formal handover in France. This move, while symbolic, was widely covered at the time.

BJP: “Congress Is Fueling Pakistan’s Propaganda”

The BJP slammed the act as irresponsible and harmful to national interest. MP Nishikant Dubey accused the Congress of playing into Pakistan’s hands, saying:

“Ajay Rai, UP Congress president, is now being celebrated by Pakistani media. This is not just a coincidence—this is an attempt by the Congress to break the morale of our armed forces.”

BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla echoed the sentiment, alleging a pattern of behavior within the Congress that aligns with foreign adversaries:

“From Channi, Priyank Kharge, Sudhakar Singh to now Ajay Rai, this isn’t a ‘sanyog’ (coincidence), but ‘sahyog’ (collaboration) with Pakistan.”

He added that the Congress leadership, especially Rahul Gandhi, must be held accountable for such repeated slights against national institutions.

Congress Defends Rai, Calls BJP Reaction ‘Overblown’

The Congress has not issued an official statement distancing itself from Rai’s comments. Party sources suggest the act was a symbolic protest. It aimed at highlighting government inaction, not as an affront to the military. However, with Pakistani media amplifying the clip, the controversy has taken on international dimensions.