Akhilesh Yadav questions the transparency and intent behind Operation Sindoor, triggering a political face-off.

The Samajwadi Party chief's remarks have added fuel to the national debate surrounding the highly publicised military operation.

In a direct and pointed remark, Akhilesh Yadav asked, “Is Operation Sindoor genuinely about national security, or is it a well-timed political strategy?” His statement has sparked sharp reactions from the ruling party, which hailed Operation Sindoor as a significant boost to India's defence preparedness and tactical capabilities.

Operation Sindoor, launched by Indian defence forces earlier this month, was presented as a crucial strategic move aimed at neutralising cross-border threats and strengthening India's regional control. While the government has released selective details highlighting its success, opposition leaders have started questioning the lack of comprehensive disclosure and independent oversight.

Yadav, known for his combative political stance, demanded a white paper on the operation. He urged the government to provide proof of its claimed achievements and clarify the rationale behind the timing of its announcement, especially when key state and national elections are approaching.

Political analysts are divided — some see Akhilesh's move as a necessary democratic check, while others believe it undermines national unity in security matters. The government, meanwhile, has defended its position, stating that all national security actions are executed in line with strategic needs, not political motives.

The issue has now escalated into a larger political debate, with several parties aligning either in support of or against Yadav’s call for transparency. As the discussion deepens, Operation Sindoor has moved beyond the battlefield into the center of India’s political

discourse.