Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi
New Delhi, Apr 11: Political tensions escalated on Friday as BJP leader Shahnawaz Hussain sharply criticized Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut over his remarks regarding the extradition of 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana, accusing him of echoing sentiments akin to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
Hussain condemned Raut’s comments, which questioned the BJP’s enthusiasm over Rana’s extradition, calling it a “festival.” Raut had earlier stated, “These people are celebrating the Tahawwur Rana festival. Kulbhushan Jadhav is rotting in Pakistan’s jail, bring him back. Bring Dawood Ibrahim back. This festival will continue till the Bihar elections.”
Responding strongly, Hussain said, “What kind of language is Sanjay Raut speaking? Is he speaking the language of the Indian Army or the army of Lashkar-e-Taiba?”
Referring to the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, which killed over 160 people, Hussain said, “Raut’s words dishonour the martyrs of 26/11. This isn’t a political issue; it’s a national fight against terrorism.”
“Tahawwur Rana was dragged from America. Those who stand against terrorism are celebrating. But Sanjay Raut is mourning,” he added.
Hussain stressed that Rana’s extradition is a major victory for India in its ongoing efforts to hold the masterminds of the Mumbai attacks accountable. “If Rana is punished, the whole country will feel that justice has been served,” he said.
Hussain also took aim at Congress leader Kanhaiya Kumar, alleging that similar anti-extradition sentiments were being echoed by Congress leaders.
“Tahawwur Rana is a terrorist. He was a mastermind of 26/11. Now that he’s in India, many of Pakistan’s secrets will be exposed. Why does Congress seem troubled?” he asked.
In a broader attack on the opposition, Hussain defended the Waqf Amendment Bill and CAA, accusing TMC, Congress, and AIMIM of misleading Muslims.
“The Waqf Amendment Act is to help poor Muslims. Like the CAA, it's being misrepresented. Has even one Muslim lost citizenship due to the CAA?” he asked, reaffirming that the Modi government will uphold the law and deal strictly with those attempting to disrupt peace.
As the war of words intensifies, the extradition of Tahawwur Rana has clearly become a flashpoint in the political narrative, blending national security concerns with electoral rhetoric ahead of crucial state polls.
