Mumbai: Senior NCP (SP) leader Sharad Pawar stirred controversy on Friday after questioning whether the terrorists involved in the recent Pahalgam attack in Kashmir had verified the religious identities of tourists before targeting them. His comments drew a sharp rebuttal from Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who advised Pawar to focus on meeting the grieving families instead of making speculative statements.
During a visit to Sindhudurg, Pawar reiterated his support for the Centre’s anti-terrorism efforts but cautioned against complacency, hinting that the apparent dip in terror incidents could be misleading. He highlighted the intelligence lapse in Pahalgam — an area he had himself visited not long ago and once considered safe — as a cause for serious concern.
Referring to reports that attackers might have selectively targeted tourists based on religion, Pawar said, “I cannot confirm if that actually happened. However, it seems the women present at the site were not harmed.” He mentioned that two victims from Pune, Santosh Jagdale and Kaustubh Ganbote, were visiting their families when the tragedy struck, adding that their accompanying sisters escaped without injuries.
On Thursday, Pawar had met the bereaved families of the deceased in Pune to offer his condolences.
Responding firmly to Pawar’s remarks, Fadnavis said, “Instead of making such comments, Pawar Saheb should talk to the families who have lost their loved ones. We should rely on verified information, not speculation.” He emphasised the need for sensitivity and accuracy while discussing such tragic incidents.
