A political storm is brewing in India after senior Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar launched a scathing critique of the Modi government’s handling of the recent border conflict, particularly scrutinizing the cost and strategic rationale behind “Operation Sandhwar.”

Wadettiwar questioned the government’s approach in using missiles costing INR 1.5 million (15 lakh rupees) each to shoot down drones allegedly deployed by Pakistan, which cost only INR 15,000 per unit. According to Indian media, nearly 5,000 Chinese-manufactured low-cost drones were used by Pakistan during the conflict.

“The government owes the country an explanation,” said Wadettiwar, addressing the media. “What was the total cost incurred in Operation Sandhwar? How many missiles were fired and how many drones were actually neutralized? Why are we using multi-million rupee weapons to counter devices worth a fraction of that?”

Wadettiwar emphasized that this disproportionate expenditure raises serious concerns about India’s military planning and strategic foresight. He accused the government of poor resource management and called on the ruling BJP to provide a full accounting of the conflict’s financial and human costs.

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Ceasefire and Casualties Under Question

Beyond the financial concerns, Wadettiwar raised important questions about the ceasefire agreement and the human cost of the conflict. “Did Pakistan shoot down any of our Rafale fighter jets? How many soldiers were martyred or injured? And why did we agree to a ceasefire reportedly at the behest of the United States?”

He criticized the Modi administration for maintaining silence on these issues and accused it of hiding behind “hollow patriotism” while avoiding public accountability.

Call for Parliamentary Inquiry

The Congress leader has demanded a full parliamentary inquiry into Operation Sandhwar and urged the government to present a white paper outlining:

• The number and type of Pakistani drones used.

• The countermeasures employed and their exact costs.

• Indian casualties and damage assessments.

• Details of any political or international pressure that led to the ceasefire, particularly from the U.S.

Democracy and Public Accountability

Wadettiwar concluded by stating that the issue is not merely about drones or missiles. “This is about transparency, public accountability, and responsible use of taxpayers’ money. Every citizen deserves to know the truth about the government’s military actions taken in their name.”

His remarks have intensified calls from opposition parties and civil society for greater transparency and parliamentary oversight on defense spending and conflict resolutions involving cross-border operations.