Sam Pitroda, Congress Overseas Chairman, Hints Retirement From Active Politics Ahead of Lok Sabha Elections 2019

New Delhi, April 6: Congress in-charge for overseas - Sam Pitroda - on Saturday indicated of retirement from active politics ahead of Lok Sabha elections 2019. He opined that the younger generation should be given the opportunity in the upcoming elections.

Expressing his opinion, he said, "I personally believe we need younger people in politics. People like us should back off. If someone asks me to be in the govt, I will not accept it. My days are over. And it's tough sometimes for people to let go." PM Narendra Modi Hits Out at Sam Pitroda For Questioning Balakot Death Toll, Says 'Congress Celebrating Pakistan National Day'. 

It is to be known that the chairman of the overseas for Congress had been in controversies for questioning the Balakot Airstrikes. He had said, "I don't know much about (Pulwama) attack, it happens all the time, attack happen in Mumbai Taj hotel and Oberoi hotel. We could have reacted then and sent our planes but that is not the right approach according to me that's not how you deal with the World. Eight people come (referring to Mumbai 26/11 attacks) and do something, you don't jump on the entire nation."

Soon after the comment, BJP's Narendra Modi had slammed him for supporting Pakistan. Modi took to Twitter and wrote, "Loyal courtier of Congress’ royal dynasty admits what the nation already knew- Congress was unwilling to respond to forces of terror. This is a New India- we will answer terrorists in a language they understand and with interest!" Congress Calls Sam Pitroda's Remarks 'Personal Opinion', Attacks PM Narendra Modi For 'Spreading Venom' 

However, Congress had stated that it was Pitroda's personal opinion and the party doesn't stand by this. Reiterating Congress's stand, spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala had said, "INC has unequivocally said-: Pulwama Terror Attack was a grave National Security failure of Modi Govt, Balakot Air Strike was a shining example of valour of our Airforce, Pakistan’s terror outfits like JEM, LET & others will never succeed in their evil design."

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Apr 06, 2019 05:02 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).