Who is truly accountable for the bloodshed?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Uddhav Thackeray questions government accountability for the Pahalgam attack.
- Security failures in Kashmir remain a significant concern.
- The politicization of military operations is criticized.
- The impact of international politics on national security is explored.
- Internal party dynamics within the BJP are scrutinized.
Mumbai, July 20 (NationPress) Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray has sharply criticized the central government regarding the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, raising serious questions about security failures and accusing the administration of placing politics and diplomacy above national security.
In a conversation with Saamana, Thackeray remarked, “The Pahalgam incident was both shocking and infuriating. We were assured that normalcy had returned to Kashmir. So how did this attack occur?”
Despite his support for the abrogation of Article 370, Thackeray expressed his discontent that the situation in Kashmir continues to be unstable, contradicting government claims. “Tourism had resumed, yet security measures were ignored. One cannot treat a previously troubled region as if everything is 'fine' and let their guard down,” he stated.
Pointing out the tragic loss of 26 lives in the attack, he questioned, “Twenty-six women lost their sindoor. Who is accountable for stripping away the dignity of our mothers and sisters?”
He also highlighted the alarming issue of how terrorists were able to penetrate deep into Indian territory. “Even three months post-attack, the terrorists remain untraced. Initially, their photos were released, then dismissed. They attacked and disappeared. Where have they gone?”
Thackeray further criticized the government’s silence amidst repeated assertions by US President Donald Trump claiming he intervened to prevent a potential war between India and Pakistan. “Trump has claimed 27 times that he averted war. Why is our ‘56-inch chest’ Prime Minister silent on this?” he queried.
Mocking the post-attack “Operation Sindoor” campaign, Thackeray stated that the valor of the military was exploited for political gain. “Our army crossed the border, but what prompted their withdrawal? Why did the government pull back?” he questioned, labeling it a “mystery”.
He also scrutinized the BJP’s internal age policy, asking if Prime Minister Modi will retire at 75. “They honored PM Modi with a 75-year shawl. Leaders like Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi were forced to step down at 75. Will Modi adhere to his own rule?”
Thackeray further accused the BJP of attempting to fracture his party.
“There was a deliberate attempt to break, steal, and destroy Shiv Sena. Those in power are not even willing to respect the Constitution anymore,” he concluded.