Daijiworld Media Network – Mumbai

Mumbai, May 2: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut launched a scathing attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday, accusing him of neglecting national security in the aftermath of the Pahalgam terror attack by prioritising poll campaigns and celebrity interactions over firm action against Pakistan.

Raut expressed outrage over what he termed as the Prime Minister’s lack of urgency following the April 22 terror strike in Jammu and Kashmir’s Baisaran Valley, which left 26 civilians dead. “When there is a terrorist attack on the country, we always stand by the government. But here, instead of taking swift and tough decisions, the Prime Minister is busy campaigning and hobnobbing with Bollywood stars,” he said.

The Shiv Sena leader pointed out that within 24 hours of the Pahalgam tragedy, Modi had flown to Bihar for campaigning and later spent nearly ten hours in Mumbai attending an event with celebrities like Shah Rukh Khan and Aamir Khan. “Should we support such a Prime Minister who smiles and enjoys events when the country is mourning?” he questioned.

Raut advised Modi to stay in Delhi and frame a policy against Pakistan, instead of leaving the entire responsibility to the armed forces. He drew a sharp comparison with former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, saying, “She didn’t just rely on the army. She gave direct orders and showed strong political will. Modi should learn from her. Does he have that political will?”

Calling out the BJP-led government, Raut added, “There is not even a trace of concern on Modi's face during this national crisis. Any responsible Prime Minister would have cancelled his Mumbai event and Bihar visit. But this one behaves like a mast maula (carefree person). People can choose to support such a government, but we won’t. He is playing with public sentiments.”

He further demanded accountability from Union Home Minister Amit Shah, stating that if Shah is responsible for lapses in security, the Prime Minister should demand his resignation.

Shiv Sena (UBT) had earlier accused the BJP of promoting hollow nationalism. “During the BJP’s tenure, the foundation of true nationalism has been weakened. Many organisations are wreaking havoc in the name of religion. These brave men should be sent to Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi to fight like Abhimanyu did,” Raut remarked.

He also recalled the Pulwama attack, alleging that despite losing 40 soldiers, the government only used the incident for political mileage without ensuring meaningful retaliation.

As the Lok Sabha elections approach, tensions continue to rise with opposition leaders sharpening their criticism of the Modi government’s handling of national security and cross-border threats.