Jaya Bachchan Criticizes “Operation Sindoor” Name, Evokes Widowhood and Kashmir Concerns

Veteran actress and Member of Parliament, Jaya Bachchan, voiced her strong objection to the chosen name for a government operation, “Operation Sindoor,” during a recent Rajya Sabha session. Her impassioned remarks centered on the cultural significance of sindoor (vermilion) for married women in India and the profound grief associated with its removal upon widowhood.

“Sindoor Toh Ujad Gaya”: Bachchan’s Emotional Plea

Bachchan’s poignant words, “Sindoor toh ujad gaya,” resonated within the chamber, highlighting the emotional weight carried by the term “sindoor.” She argued that using such a term for a military operation trivialized the pain of widows and showed a lack of sensitivity.

Linking “Operation Sindoor” to Kashmir’s Situation

Bachchan connected her criticism to the broader context of Kashmir post-Article 370. She questioned the government’s strategy in combating terrorism and expressed concerns about the impact on the region. Her remarks sparked debate within the parliament about the appropriateness of the operation’s name and the government’s overall handling of the Kashmir situation.