BJP MLA R S Pathania Denies Disrespecting Indian Air Force Amid Viral Video Controversy

A video clip allegedly showing BJP MLA R S Pathania making negative comments about the Indian Air Force (IAF) during a meeting about a land dispute has gone viral, causing a political uproar in Jammu and Kashmir. Pathania, representing Udhampur East, has denied these claims, stating the clip was altered to defame him. He mentioned that the party's legal team has lodged a police complaint.

Political Reactions and Allegations

The controversy began when a nine-second video appeared on social media, where Pathania seemingly criticised the IAF's role in Operation Sindoor, questioning their competence. The J-K Congress condemned these remarks as disrespectful and demanded an apology. In the clip, Pathania is heard saying, "During Operation Sindoor, everyone remembers what happened at the Air Force station. Either it was the fault of the incompetent ones, or these people must have been asleep. We were not at fault. We had placed them here with great respect, as if on our eyelids."

Pathania's Defence and Support

In response to the backlash, Pathania released a video statement asserting his innocence. "I have not said anything against the armed forces. The clip is edited and morphed. Our legal team has taken action and filed an FIR against those responsible for spreading this misinformation," he stated. He reiterated his support for the armed forces by saying, "Bharat Mata ki Jai. Armed Forces ki Jai. Indian Air Force ki Jai. We are proud of our forces."

BJP state president Sat Sharma supported Pathania, claiming his words were misinterpreted. "I have spoken to Pathania ji. An FIR has already been registered in this regard," Sharma informed reporters.

Congress Demands Action

Meanwhile, Congress working president Raman Bhalla criticised the BJP for its silence on the issue. "We condemn it. Why is the top BJP leadership silent over such utterances against our armed forces? We demand stern action against all such leaders," Bhalla stated.

Underlying Land Dispute

The controversy is linked to a long-standing land dispute between local residents and the IAF station near Udhampur. Recently, notices were issued by the district administration and IAF regarding alleged unauthorised obstructions on a road leading to the station.

Addressing villagers at a protest meeting in Kaseeda village, Pathania accused the administration and IAF of issuing arbitrary notices. "Just today, a notice under Section 152 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita has been issued. This is about unauthorised obstruction. The administration should understand the law or we will make them understand," he said.

Pathania claimed that the land legally belongs to locals and was originally given in good faith for national interest without compensation. He warned against any illegal actions from authorities, stating, "We will respond not with bricks but with stones if forced. Stay within constitutional limits," while emphasising that locals are patriotic and cooperative.

The situation remains tense with ongoing legal proceedings and heightened political tensions over land rights and national security concerns.

With inputs from PTI