P. Chidambaram wanted to take retaliatory action against Pakistan in the aftermath of the 26/11 Mumbai attacks. However, the UPA government was keen on resolving the issue through diplomatic channels. Chidambaram made this explosive claim in an interview with ABP Live.
Then Home Minister Shivraj Patil resigned immediately after the terrorist attack. Chidambaram was the finance minister at the time. He was informed that very day that he would have to take over as Home Minister. In Chidambaram's words, "I didn't have much idea about military or intelligence matters. I was also unaware of how things worked in Pakistan and the surrounding region. So initially, I was reluctant to take up the responsibility."
Chidambaram claims he had no choice in the matter. He was informed that Congress President Sonia Gandhi herself had made this decision. Chidambaram says, "I wanted to speak with her. But I was told she wasn't in the city. I was essentially in the dark. Even then, I had to take up the responsibility."
At that time, there was also intense pressure on India from the international community. The US Secretary of State had come on a visit to Delhi. She also had a meeting with Manmohan Singh.
However, Chidambaram personally wanted to take retaliatory action against Pakistan. He says, "I felt we should take strong action. This was discussed with the Prime Minister and other concerned parties. But it was decided there that we should proceed through diplomatic channels rather than military ones."
As soon as Chidambaram's comments came to light, the BJP launched a scathing attack on Congress. Accusing the party of a "weak mentality" in protecting national security, BJP leader Shehzad Poonawalla questioned, 'Who stopped Chidambaram? Was it Sonia Gandhi or Manmohan Singh?' He sarcastically added, "With what face does Congress question surgical strikes or the Balakot air strike?"
