Pakistan Downed Five Indian Fighter Jets: BJP's Swamy Drops Bombshell

In a shocking admission that contradicts New Delhi’s official stance, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy has publicly stated that Pakistan downed five Indian fighter jets during a recent flare-up between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. Among the aircraft allegedly shot down were Rafale jets—India’s prized possession in modern air combat.

Swamy made these remarks during a podcast appearance, where he criticised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s handling of the military standoff that unfolded in early May. “Pakistan downed five Indian fighter jets using Chinese aircraft. Our Rafales proved ineffective,” said Swamy, who served in the Rajya Sabha until 2022. This is the third time Pakistan’s military officials and political voices have claimed such a downing, and Swamy’s words now provide rare validation from within India’s ruling party.

The confrontation between India and Pakistan spanned four days, beginning on May 7 when India launched missile strikes across the Line of Control. The move was described by Indian officials as targeting “terrorist infrastructure.” In response, Pakistan carried out retaliatory strikes, leading to the worst border skirmishes in years. Both sides reportedly deployed jets, drones, artillery, and missile systems during the standoff.

Pakistan claims it downed six Indian jets, a number India has repeatedly denied. But the statement that Pakistan downed five Indian fighter jets has now been echoed by a senior Indian figure, intensifying public and diplomatic scrutiny. International outlets have supported Pakistan’s version, yet the Indian government has remained tight-lipped.

Swamy also accused Modi of political manipulation and failing to defend India’s sovereignty effectively. “Modi is a master manipulator. He let American pressure dictate our military response. That ceasefire was not an Indian decision — it was a submission,” Swamy claimed. He further called for an investigation into the Rafale deal, alleging rampant corruption that has remained unchecked under the current administration.

Pakistan downed five Indian fighter jets: Watch video as BJP leader speaks

Swamy’s remarks are the most explicit internal critique the Modi administration has faced over its military policies. His bold assertion that Pakistan downed five Indian fighter jets could change the narrative around India’s recent actions in Kashmir and its long-standing border tension with Pakistan.

As political tension rises within India and diplomatic challenges grow externally, Swamy’s comments are likely to spark further debate about India’s defence preparedness and its foreign policy direction.