Amid the controversy surrounding Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar’s statement, “do terrorists have time to ask for religion?” following the Pahalgam terror attack, BJP Maharashtra State President Chandrashekhar Bawankule has sharply criticized the Congress leader, accusing him of attempting to “exonerate” the terrorists behind the attack.
Taking to the social media platform X, Bawankule lambasted Wadettiwar, describing his comment as the “height of insensitivity” and condemning his “terrorists have no caste or religion” remark, questioning the motive behind such a statement.
“Vijay Wadettiwar’s statement is the height of insensitivity. It has been proven time and time again that Hindus are being targeted in Kashmir. So, in what world is Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar living? Who is Wadettiwar trying to please by saying, ‘Terrorists have no caste or religion’? Are Congress leaders trying to ‘exonerate’ terrorists?” Bawankule said.
He further asserted that such comments from Congress leaders reveal a mentality that is “not in line with national interests,” branding it “anti-national” and a “disgusting attempt” to shield terrorists.
Bawankule also accused the Congress party of politicizing sensitive issues, claiming they are “playing with the emotions of Indians” and “rubbing salt in the wounds” of the victims.
“Vijay Wadettiwar’s statement shows a disgusting attempt to cover up the faces of terrorists and protect them. This is not only irresponsible but also an example of an anti-national mentality. Every Indian who loves the country should strongly condemn Wadettiwar’s statement. Congress leaders are playing with the emotions of Indians, rubbing salt in the wounds and doing politics; the people will not forget this,” the BJP leader asserted.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also criticized Wadettiwar’s remarks, stating that they “add insult to injury” for the families of the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack.
“Such statements add insult to injury for those who have lost their relatives. We all have seen what the family members of the victims have said. They were killed before them, and they have said this,” Fadnavis remarked.
The backlash comes after Wadettiwar questioned the account of the victims, who claimed that the terrorists asked about their religion before opening fire, leading to a furious response from BJP leaders and their allies.