Are all-party delegations really necessary? Shiv Sena-UBT stirs fresh controversy

Synopsis
Political tensions rise as Shiv Sena-UBT leader Ambadas Danve declares all-party delegations unnecessary for India's stance on cross-border terrorism. This bold statement comes amid the Centre's recent nominations, igniting discussions on national security and the role of political parties in international diplomacy.
Key Takeaways
- Ambadas Danve challenges the need for all-party delegations.
- Shiv Sena-UBT emphasizes national security over political differences.
- Political unity is crucial during international conflicts.
- Danve supports decisive action against Pakistan.
- Debate continues over the effectiveness of current policies on terrorism.
Mumbai, May 21 (NationPress) Shiv Sena-UBT leader Ambadas Danve has ignited a new political controversy by asserting that the all-party delegations are "unnecessary" for India's global outreach on cross-border terrorism.
These comments from Danve, the Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Council, follow the Centre's decision to include his party's Rajya Sabha member Priyanka Chaturvedi in the all-party delegations visiting several nations to showcase India’s strong stance on terrorism and underline Pakistan’s role in supporting it.
In a conversation with IANS, Danve stated: "The safety of the nation is our paramount concern, and it must remain so. When it comes to national security, political viewpoints should take a back seat. We can discuss the government’s shortcomings in internal forums. However, concerning a delegation visiting abroad to present India’s position, I feel all-party delegations are not required. Shiv Sena-UBT is a patriotic party. The government has opted to include us, and we are on board."
Danve further emphasized that the party’s position during wartime has consistently been resolute.
“Our stance is unequivocal: there should be no ceasefire. Pakistan must be addressed firmly. It’s no surprise that Shiv Sena-UBT is part of this delegation—it resonates with our strong nationalistic approach,” he remarked.
He confirmed that the party had received official notification from the Centre regarding their participation.
"As far as I know, the Parliamentary Affairs Minister reached out to Uddhav ji (party chief Uddhav Thackeray), and we are fully backing the initiative. A standard process exists, and it has been adhered to," Danve added.
Danve also backed Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's recent critique of the government's handling of cross-border tensions.
During a rally in Karnataka, Kharge indirectly targeted "Operation Sindoor," labeling the government’s military actions as "chutput" (minor) conflicts and accused it of failing to avert the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which resulted in 26 fatalities.
Responding to Kharge's comments, Danve said: "Yes, it was a minor conflict, nothing significant. Nations like Ukraine, Russia, and Israel have been involved in prolonged wars. In comparison, this was a fleeting conflict. There's no need to exaggerate it."
Highlighting the efforts of the Indian Army, Danve added: "We targeted terrorist bases using drones. We did not engage civilians or attack Pakistan’s infrastructure. Our goal was clear - to eliminate terrorists. This exemplifies the bravery of the Indian Army. There were no civilian casualties. It was a three-day operation handled efficiently by the Army. Nevertheless, we cannot classify it as a major war; it was a minor one. We should have delivered a robust response to deter Pakistan from future provocations."