Jaipur, October 16, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Rajasthan BJP president Madan Rathore has defended his remarks after a video clip in which he is heard saying “we are with Pakistan” went viral on social media, triggering sharp criticism from opposition parties.
The controversy followed a speech Rathore delivered at an event in Jaipur marking the birth anniversary of former President Dr A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. In the clip, he refers to a hypothetical war between the United States and Pakistan and says Pakistan is India’s neighbour. In the same speech, he reportedly clarified that India would stand firmly with its own country if a war broke out between India and Pakistan.
The remarks drew criticism from the Congress, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) and other opposition leaders, who demanded an explanation from Rathore and action from the BJP’s central leadership.
Responding to the backlash, Rathore alleged that a 20-second portion of his speech had been selectively edited and circulated to create a misleading impression. He said his comments had been taken out of context during a broader discussion about India-Pakistan cricket matches and patriotism.
According to Rathore, he had criticised people who celebrate India’s defeat against Pakistan by bursting firecrackers, saying such conduct could not be considered patriotic. He maintained that references to the United States and Pakistan formed part of the wider discussion and that the viral excerpt did not convey the full meaning of his remarks.
Rejecting suggestions that he had softened his position on Pakistan, Rathore said the BJP’s stand remained unchanged. He accused Pakistan of conspiring against India, referring to the Pulwama terror attack, alleged cross-border terrorist training and infiltration, and the smuggling of narcotics into Rajasthan and other parts of the country.
Rathore alleged that the clip had been circulated with malicious intent to damage his image. The BJP camp has defended him, claiming the video was selectively edited, while opposition leaders have questioned the appropriateness of his remarks.
The episode has intensified the political confrontation in Rajasthan, with Rathore’s original comments and subsequent explanation becoming a fresh flashpoint between the BJP and opposition parties.
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