Debate erupts over sudden India-Pakistan ceasefire as Debabrata spar

Guwahati: The unexpected military ceasefire between India and Pakistan has sparked political tensions, with Assam Legislative Assembly’s Leader of Opposition and senior Congress leader Debabrata Saikia questioning the central government's silence on the matter. Addressing the media on Tuesday, Saikia expressed concerns over the lack of transparency surrounding the ceasefire, saying that even senior political leaders remain uninformed about the current situation. “Not only the Congress, but the people of the country are questioning the Prime Minister—why did the ceasefire happen so suddenly?” Saikia said. “For the first time, the Prime Minister convened an all-party meeting, and we made it clear that the opposition would support every legitimate effort towards national security. But I still don’t know what the current status is because there has been no clear official communication.” Saikia urged the Union government to come forward with comprehensive details and ensure both the public and opposition parties are kept in the loop about critical developments, especially those concerning national security. The comments come in response to the recent announcement of a ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, following heightened tensions and cross-border hostilities earlier this month. Reacting sharply to Saikia’s remarks, Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma defended the central government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking at a press conference on May 13, Sarma stated that the Congress party had no moral authority to question the ceasefire decision. Sarma clarified that the military operation, dubbed Operation Sindoor, had fulfilled its objective by “punishing and dismantling the terror network” on the night of May 6. “After that, Pakistan retaliated on behalf of the terrorists, and India responded to them very bravely,” he said. “When Pakistan realised that if they continued, they would be massacred, they surrendered.” Sarma maintained that the ceasefire was a tactical and justified move following India’s firm response and strategic success. “The government has acted in the nation’s interest, and the Congress should not politicise matters of national security,” he added. The war of words highlights the deepening political divide over foreign policy and national defense strategy, as opposition leaders demand greater clarity while the ruling party emphasizes operational success and national interest.