In a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut on Friday made a sensational remark linking the delay in apprehending terrorists to the ruling party. His statement sparked sharp political reactions and raised the temperature in Maharashtra's political arena.

Speaking to reporters about the recent terror alert involving six suspected terrorists from Pahalgam, Raut alleged a political shield around the accused.

“Maybe the terrorists have joined the BJP, that’s why they are not being caught. The six terrorists from Pahalgam are not being caught, perhaps because one day you will receive a press note from the BJP office saying those six people have joined the BJP. So, forget everything,” said Raut, in a biting sarcastic tone.

Shiv Sena (UBT), part of the INDIA alliance, has consistently accused the BJP of "misusing agencies" against opposition leaders while allegedly offering safe passage to individuals who align politically with the party.