Which side would India take in a war between Pakistan and the US? Here’s what a BJP leader said.

Bangla Press Desk: A statement by BJP leader Madan Rathore—suggesting that India would side with Pakistan in the event of a war between the United States and Pakistan—has caused a stir in India. Madan Rathore is the president of the Rajasthan state unit of the BJP. Following his remarks, opposition parties have launched sharp criticism against the BJP.
Speaking at an event in Jaipur, Madan Rathore stated that the matter should be viewed from a different perspective. He remarked, "If a war were to break out today between the United States and Pakistan, then as a neighbor, we would stand by Pakistan. However, if the conflict were between India and Pakistan, then we would, of course, stand with India."
As this comment spread across social media, opposition parties became vocal. Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed labeled Madan Rathore "anti-national," questioning how the BJP could speak of supporting Pakistan—a country responsible for the deaths of Indian soldiers. Meanwhile, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) alleged that while the BJP is quick to brand ordinary citizens as "traitors" for merely raising questions, one of its own leaders is now openly speaking in favor of Pakistan.
Facing pressure, Madan Rathore later clarified that his full statement had not been presented. He claimed that he had used this example while discussing India-Pakistan cricket matches and the sentiment of patriotism. He argued that people had taken his comments out of context—omitting the preceding parts and focusing only on the final two lines—thereby misrepresenting his position.
BP/TD