News Brief
PM Modi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday (11 May) slammed the Congress party for perpetuating fear regarding Pakistan's nuclear capabilities.
Addressing a rally in Odisha’s Phulbani under Kandhamal Lok Sabha constituency, PM Modi also commemorated the 25th anniversary of the nuclear tests conducted in Pokhran under former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government.
"Twenty five years ago today, Atal Ji's government conducted nuclear tests in Pokhran, showcasing India's strength to the world," PM Modi said.
"While India demonstrated its potential, the Congress continues to sow fear by suggesting Pakistan's possession of nuclear weapons," he said, in an apparent reference to a statement by Congress leader Manishankar Iyer.
Criticising Congress for its softened stance, PM Modi stated, "They repeatedly try to frighten us, warning about Pakistan's atomic bomb. However, Pakistan is struggling to manage its own situation. They're even trying to sell their bombs, but no one wants to buy them because of their poor quality".
After Iyer's remarks went viral on social media, Congress on Friday (10 May) dissociated itself from its veteran leader's statement, saying he "does not speak for the party in any capacity whatsoever".