Avinash Azad
A political controversy has emerged in Udhampur after a video surfaced showing Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader and former spokesperson R.S. Pathania allegedly making disparaging remarks about the Indian Air Force (IAF). The video, which quickly went viral, appeared to capture Pathania speaking critically about the IAF in the context of an ongoing eviction drive near the Air Force Station Udhampur.
The remarks, reportedly made during a public meeting with local residents opposing the eviction, referred to the IAF’s conduct during Operation Sindoor, a recent military action. In the video, Pathania is heard saying in Hindi:
“ऑपरेशन सिंदूर के दौरान एयरफोर्स स्टेशन पर क्या हुआ था, यह सब जानते हैं. नालायकी होगी इनकी और यह लोग सोए होंगे. कसूर इन लोगों का है, हमारा नहीं और हमलोगों ने इन्हें पलकों पर बिठा रखा है।”
(Everyone knows what happened at the Air Force Station during Operation Sindoor. It must have been their incompetence; they were probably asleep. It’s their fault, not ours—and yet we have treated them with utmost respect.)
The clip drew widespread condemnation from political opponents, defence veterans, and civil society groups, who accused the BJP leader of showing disrespect towards the armed forces.
In his defence, Pathania categorically denied the allegations, claiming the video was “doctored and edited out of context” to misrepresent his words. He emphasized his “deep respect for the armed forces and security personnel” and said he would never intentionally make statements that undermine their dignity.
“The video has been manipulated to tarnish my image,” Pathania said. “I have always stood in support of our defence forces and their sacrifices.” The incident comes amid tensions surrounding eviction notices served by the IAF to local shopkeepers and residents as part of a proposed road widening project adjacent to the Udhampur air base.
The project, according to officials, is aimed at strengthening infrastructure around the strategically vital facility. While the Ministry of Defence has not officially responded, sources in the local administration expressed concern over “politically motivated statements” that could strain civil-military relations. Authorities have reiterated that the eviction notices followed due process, and that efforts are underway to provide suitable alternatives for affected families.
