Rahul Gandhi calls PM Modi ‘magician’ of Balakot, Op Sindoor & Demonetisation

In the Lok Sabha on April 17, 2026, Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi launched a strong attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, referring to him as the “magician” behind major decisions such as the 2019 Balakot airstrike, demonetisation, and Operation Sindoor.
Gandhi alleged that these developments were part of a broader strategy to shape public perception and influence governance, accusing the government of using such measures to manage narratives and strengthen its electoral position. He also claimed that recent legislative moves were aimed at altering the political balance.
The remarks drew sharp objections from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MPs, who condemned them as inappropriate and disrespectful, particularly in relation to national security matters and the armed forces.
The House witnessed repeated disruptions as BJP members demanded that the comments be expunged from parliamentary records, leading to heated exchanges between both sides.
Parliamentary proceedings had to be intervened in by the Chair to restore order, as tensions escalated between the ruling and opposition benches over the issue.