BJP’s Madhav Bhandari sparked controversy in his remarks on 26/11, and later issues clarified

Madhav Bhandari, Vice President of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), caused a sensation after accusing Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) of participating in the 26/11 Mumbai terrorist attack on Sunday (20 April 20, 2025). Mr Bhandari claimed that such a large-scale attack would not have occurred without the participation of individuals with an impact on local governments. His remarks sparked widespread anger, prompting him to issue clarification later.

“My speech yesterday was misunderstood. Things I never said were attributed to me. Many newspapers and media are concluding that these conclusions are inaccurate. The real problem is that the government at that time had prior knowledge of the attacks on 26/11. The notes of the news clearly warned the possibility of such an attack. At that time, the scope of the government had already had 85% detailed information. Prevent attacks. Mr. Bhandari told the media on Monday (21 April 2025).

“Many officials and staff were killed in the 26/11 attack. [the mastermind of the attack] Tahawwur Rana has been brought to India, and discussions surrounding the attack surfaced, and Congress and NCP leaders at the time had to respond. I never directly accuse anyone of being involved. But questions like the reasons for David Headley’s escape and several other questions must be answered by the then-ruling Congress-NCP government. ” Mr Bhandari added.

“With Rana’s investigation now in India, the Chief Minister and Home Minister should be held accountable when the attacks. They should provide the answer. Ajit Pawar is not [Maharashtra] Minister of the Interior. People may choose my statement, but they choose my statement, but why is there a dispute over the facts? ” Mr. Bhandari further said.

When asked about Mr. Bandari’s remarks, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar called for “asking” the question “through inquiry.” Mr Paval added: “The investigation must be conducted on this issue. We are in power in the center and in the state, and the police agencies are under our control. Therefore, thorough inquiries should be conducted and those convicted must face action.”

“When the 26/11 attack occurred, the Chief Minister and Home Minister were responsible for the mistakes. I was not the Home Minister at that time. People were free to interpret these comments in their own way, but the facts were facts.”