During a fiery debate in Rajya Sabha, Samajwadi Party MP Jaya Bachchan raised serious concerns over the naming of India’s retaliatory action after the Pahalgam attack — Operation Sindoor. She questioned the logic behind using the word Sindoor, a symbol of marriage, when many women were left widowed after the tragedy.
The actress-turned-politician expressed deep emotions. “Why call it Operation Sindoor when so many women lost their sindoor?” she asked. Her words carried a sharp critique of the symbolism and the aftermath of the Pahalgam incident.
As she spoke, interruptions from other MPs attempted to throw her off. The chair advised her to ignore the noise. But Jaya Bachchan, known for her fierce demeanor, replied strongly, “I have sharp ears.” She then turned to Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi beside her and firmly said, “Don’t control me.”
Bachchan offered heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims. She described the entire attack as unreal. “It feels like a scene from a film,” she said. “So many people killed… and nothing was done to stop it.”
She criticized the government for its hollow promises. After the removal of Article 370, they had claimed that terrorism would end. “What happened now?” she asked. “Tourists went there believing in those promises, and they paid with their lives.”
Jaya Bachchan didn’t hold back. She said the faith of the public had been broken. The families affected by Operation Sindoor would never forget the betrayal. “Those in power don’t even have the courage to say sorry,” she added. “There must be humility when you hold authority.”
She continued her criticism of the defense minister’s statements. “What’s the use of self-reliance and manufacturing weapons if you can’t protect your own citizens?” she asked. “We need humanity, not just bombs.”
The lawmaker also stressed that violence can never truly resolve conflict. She stated bluntly, “No fight can be won with violence alone.” Echoing a quote from Trinamool leader Derek O’Brien, she added, “The weaker the argument, the louder the voice.”
Ending her speech, she made a direct appeal to the government. “Be kind. Be humble. You were given power with hope. Protect the people. Say sorry.”
Her remarks turned the spotlight on the emotional and moral failure of Operation Sindoor. Instead of reassurance, the campaign left a trail of grief and unanswered questions.