Hyderabad, March 24: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday took a dig at the previous United Progressive Alliance (UPA) for not taking action against the culprits of 26/11 Mumbai attack even though the defence forces were ready to take action. While speaking at an event in Hyderabad, the defence minister, “If only a similar deterrent action (#airstrike) was taken after Mumbai attack... & I have enough reasons to believe that armed forces did tell the govt at that time, 'if you want us to do something, we are ready, but we want you to take the call.” PM Narendra Modi Hits Out at Sam Pitroda For Questioning Balakot Death Toll, Says 'Congress Celebrating Pakistan National Day'.

Nirmala Sitharaman's Tweet:

Sitharam was responding to allegations from the opposition parties over the politicisation of the Balakot air strike and the increasing tension between India and Pakistan. Speaking at a different event, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj also lauded India’s diplomacy bringing back Wing Commander Abhinanadan Varthaman to India from Pakistan within two days. The IAF officer was captured by the Pakistani Army after his MiG-27 Bison was shot down in the aerial engagement which took place after the Pakstan Air Force violated the Indian air space. Congress in Power When 26/11 Mumbai Terror Attacks Took Place, Questions Our Surgical Strikes in Pakistan: Narendra Modi in Rajasthan.

Sushma Swaraj's tweet:

The comments by both the union ministers came days after close confidant of Congress President Rahul Gandhi, Sam Pitroda raised questions about the airstrike after the Pulwama attack. Reacting to Piroda’s comments, PM Modi accused him of insulting the defence forces.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 24, 2019 05:24 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).