Haryana: BJP Rajya Sabha MP Ram Chander Jangra has ignited a political and social storm with his controversial remarks about the women affected by the recent Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking at a public event in Bhiwani on May 24, Jangra stated that the women whose husbands were killed in the attack were “not brave like Rani Laxmibai or Ahilyabai Holkar,” implying that their lack of courage contributed to the tragic loss of 26 lives.
Jangra said, “If the women in Pahalgam had shown the courage of Ahilyabai Holkar and confronted the terrorists, fewer people would have died. Terrorists don’t listen to folded hands.” His comments referenced the deadly April 22 attack in Baisaran Valley, where terrorists opened fire on tourists, resulting in 26 deaths. He further suggested that if the victims had received training under government schemes like Agniveer and fought back, the number of casualties could have been lower..
The MP’s remarks have drawn widespread condemnation for being insensitive and disrespectful to the victims and their families. Congress MP Deepender Singh Hooda called the comments “extremely despicable,” while Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav described them as “grotesque and deeply shameful,” accusing the BJP of harboring an anti-women mentality.
Despite mounting criticism, Jangra stood by his statements, arguing that pleading for mercy would not have saved lives and that a more aggressive response might have reduced the casualties. His comments have sparked a broader debate about victim-blaming and the unrealistic expectations placed on civilians, especially women, during terror attacks.
