Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde launched a scathing attack on Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of politicizing India’s firm stance against terrorism at a time when the world is backing Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In a strongly worded statement, Shinde said, “Our delegation has gone to different countries. We spoke to Shrikant Shinde, whose delegation has gone to the UAE. UAE said that we are with India in the fight against terrorism...The whole world is speaking, but they are doing politics here.”

Targeting Rahul Gandhi directly, Shinde questioned his commitment to national interests. “Don't they have patriotism in their blood?... The Prime Minister has openly said that India will not tolerate this anymore and he (Rahul Gandhi) has doubts. At such a time, if he says such things, then the countrymen will teach him a lesson,” he added.

The remarks come amidst ongoing political sparring between the ruling NDA and the Opposition INDIA bloc, with national security and foreign policy fast emerging as key poll issues.

Shinde highlighted how various countries have expressed solidarity with India’s stand on terrorism, emphasizing that recent diplomatic outreach has strengthened India's global position. “The whole country is with Prime Minister Modi, they are not able to digest this, they are jealous,” Shinde said, suggesting Rahul Gandhi’s statements reflect political desperation.

The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies have repeatedly accused Rahul Gandhi of undermining India’s interests on international platforms.