Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, May 6: Launching a blistering critique of the central government’s response to the recent Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Tuesday questioned the rationale behind conducting mock war drills and sarcastically asked whether the government plans to distribute weapons to civilians.

In a scathing remark aimed at the Modi-led government, Raut said, “What kind of guns will the government hand over to the people during these drills? The government has mentally trapped citizens in this war-like atmosphere. While other nations retaliate within hours when attacked, we are busy preparing for drills. What exactly are we preparing for?”

Raut’s comments come amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan and the Union government’s announcement of nationwide civil defence drills including blackouts, warning sirens, and camouflage of strategic installations. The measures, according to the government, are part of a proactive readiness exercise.

Drawing parallels to past national crises, Raut said, “We’ve seen all this during the 1971 war. Even during the pandemic, the people were made to bang plates and clap. Now they are being made to act out war drills. The army’s preparedness is never in question, but what is the government doing for actual security?”

Raising constitutional concerns, the Rajya Sabha MP pointedly stated, “Is the President — the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces — even aware? These are not just drills; they reflect a mindset. There’s talk of support from Japan and Russia, but what about concrete action?”

Raut also criticised the absence of a parliamentary debate, unlike in Pakistan, where a special session was called following the Pahalgam massacre. “Why isn’t our Parliament being called for a two-day special session? An all-party meeting isn't enough — we need national consensus on how to handle Kashmir and the larger India-Pakistan situation.”

In a direct attack on Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Raut said, “He has failed to handle the internal situation. If a real war breaks out, he won’t be able to manage its consequences. He should be removed from office.”

Asserting that the Indian people are mentally resilient and do not need “symbolic gestures,” Raut concluded, “This is not the time for optics. It is time for honest leadership, strategic clarity, and unity in Parliament.”