Rajdeep Sardesai Creates Controversy Over PoK Remark on India Today Debate
Senior journalist Rajdeep Sardesai has once again landed in controversy after making remarks during a debate on India Today, where he appeared to say that India should accept the current Line of Control (LoC) as the permanent border with Pakistan and give up claims over Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
A video clip of his statement has gone viral on social media, drawing strong criticism. During the debate, Sardesai said that India needs to find a long-term solution to the Kashmir issue. He mentioned, “We must talk about terrorism with Pakistan, but also look at our internal issues in Jammu and Kashmir.”
In one of the most debated moments, Sardesai asked, “How are we going to take back PoK? We have two options. Either we agree on the current LoC as the international border, which was once suggested. I think this is a possible solution.”
Many people saw this as weakening India’s position on PoK, and accused him of echoing Pakistan’s line.
Sardesai also spoke about the danger of underestimating Pakistan’s nuclear strength. Referring to recent military operations like “Operation Sindoor,” he said, “Are we saying we can walk into PoK and Pakistan will quietly let it go? Let’s not forget that Pakistan is a nuclear power. Are we thinking about real, permanent solutions or is this just about political messaging for the PM’s supporters?”
Rajdeep Sardesai is saying give POK to Pakistan. pic.twitter.com/YvW8pJJAI0
— BALA (@erbmjha) May 25, 2025
Past Controversies and Fake News Incident
This is not the first time Rajdeep Sardesai has been criticised for his remarks or actions.
In January 2021, during the farmers’ protest, he tweeted that a protester died due to police firing during the Republic Day tractor rally. But later, it was confirmed that the man actually died when his tractor overturned. His false tweet caused a lot of outrage.
Because of this, India Today suspended him for two weeks and cut one month’s salary. The incident raised serious questions about his reporting standards.
Bias Allegations and Conflict of Interest
Rajdeep Sardesai has often been accused of being biased against the BJP and Prime Minister Modi, while being soft on opposition parties.
These allegations became stronger after his wife, Sagarika Ghose, was nominated to the Rajya Sabha by the Trinamool Congress (TMC) — a party that is strongly opposed to the BJP.
People started questioning whether Sardesai can remain neutral as a journalist when his spouse is an MP from the opposition. Many believe that ever since her nomination, Sardesai has been openly critical of the Modi government while ignoring or deflecting the failures of the opposition. (Also read: Lalu Prasad Cuts Ties With Tej Pratap After Viral Relationship Post)
Speculations on His Position at India Today
So far, India Today has not officially commented on the Rajdeep Sardesai’s issue. But there are rumours that the channel might be considering his exit as an internal step to handle the backlash.
Some say this could be a sign that the channel is finally taking a tough stand against journalists acting like political spokespersons, especially those who are accused of turning their dislike for Modi into hate for the country.