Amid controversy over his “felt at home” in Pakistan remark, Congress overseas chief Sam Pitroda on Friday issued a clarification, saying he meant to emphasize the shared history and people-to-people bonds and not ignore pain.
“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,” Pitroda said in a lengthy statement.
He continued, “When I said that I often felt ‘at home’ visiting neighboring countries, or that culturally and socially we share roots, I meant to emphasize shared history and people-to-people bonds – not to ignore pain, conflict, or the grave challenges we face from terror and geopolitical tensions.”
Pitroda stated that he countered the “Vishwaguru” narrative to caution against overconfidence in image over substance.
“Foreign policy must be based on real influence, mutual trust, peace, and regional stability – not bravado or optics,” the Indian Overseas Congress chief said.
Pitroda further asserted the need to defend democracy, highlighting the need to ensure free and fair elections, empower youth, protect minority rights and resist polarisation.
“These are not partisan issues – they go to the heart of what and who we are as a nation,” he added.
He said, “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.”
His clarification came shortly after his remarks, during an interview with IANS, triggered massive backlash from BJP.
Pitroda had said that India must prioritise its neighbours even as he acknowledged the violence and terrorism.
“Of course, there is a problem of violence; of course, there is a problem of terrorism. All that is there, but at the end of the day, in that neighbourhood, there is a common gene pool. I’ve been to Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal. I don’t feel like I’m in a foreign country,” he had said.
Reacting to his remarks, BJP spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla targeted Rahul Gandhi, saying his “closest ally” and “Uncle Sam Pitroda” feels at home in Pakistan, which shows the undying love of the Congress party for the neighbouring country.
“Rahul Gandhi’s closest ally & leader, family friend Uncle Sam Pitroda (who said Hua to Hua for 1984 Anti Sikh Genocide), who made racially disgusting comments on Indians, says he feels at home in Pakistan. Why is it surprising – Congress has undying love for Pakistan. They even spoke to Hafiz Saeed via Yasin Malik!” Poonawalla said.