• Source:JND
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Congress leader Sam Pitroda, facing backlash over his recent comment about feeling "at home" in neighbouring countries including Pakistan, has come forward to explain his position. The remark triggered sharp criticism, but Pitroda clarified that his intent was not to downplay the pain or conflict tied to India’s geopolitical struggles.

In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), he stressed, "My aim was never to belittle anyone's suffering or undermine legitimate concerns but to foster honest conversation, empathy, and a more grounded and responsible approach to how India sees itself and is seen by others."

He went on to say the purpose behind his words was simply to highlight the deep cultural and historical ties within the Indian subcontinent, rather than ignore the complex challenges such as terrorism or diplomatic tensions. "My intention has always been to call attention to the realities we face: concerns about the electoral process, the importance of civil society and youth, and India's role - both in its neighborhood and globally," he added.

Pitroda’s remarks came during a broader discussion on India's foreign policy priorities. He emphasized the need for New Delhi to maintain strong ties in its immediate neighbourhood especially at a time when relations with countries like Nepal and Bangladesh have become more complicated.

Without delving into specifics, Pitroda had said, "Our foreign policy, according to me, must first focus on our neighbourhood. Can we really substantially improve relationships with our neighbours? I've been to Pakistan, and I must tell you, I felt at home. I've been to Bangladesh, I've been to Nepal, and I feel at home. I don't feel like I'm in a foreign country."

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This inclusion of Pakistan, however, gave political ammunition to the BJP. They seized the opportunity to accuse the Congress of undermining national interests. BJP spokesperson Pradeep Bhandari said, "Rahul Gandhi's blue-eyed boy & Congress Overseas chief Sam Pitroda says he 'felt at home' in Pakistan. No wonder UPA took no tough action against Pak even after 26/11. Pakistan's favourite, Congress's chosen!"

Pitroda, who currently heads the Indian Overseas Congress, has found himself in hot water before due to controversial comments. Last year, he temporarily stepped away from his post after two of his statements sparked fierce debate one touching on India's diversity (which the BJP interpreted as racially charged), and another referencing inheritance tax, which critics claimed signaled a desire to introduce wealth redistribution policies in India.

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His remarks on inheritance tax were especially controversial during election season. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had claimed that if Congress came to power, it would seize personal property even "mangalsutras of women" to redistribute it among “infiltrators.”

Speaking to NDTV, he said, "People are not interested in the substance of a conversation, they are interested in the form of the conversation."