Maharashtra BJP chief denies credit war among allies over Kashmir rescue efforts  

Maharashtra BJP President Chandrashekhar Bawankule. File
| Photo Credit: PTI

Maharashtra BJP president Chandrashekhar Bawankule on Friday (April 25, 2025) dismissed reports of a rift within the ruling Mahayuti alliance over credit for the safe return of tourists from Kashmir following the Pahalgam terror attack, asserting that the coalition remains united.  

His statement came amid claims that the BJP and its ally Shiv Sena were competing to take credit for rescue operations, with both parties independently coordinating efforts to assist stranded tourists.  

On Tuesday, a terror attack in Pahalgam claimed 26 lives, including six tourists from Maharashtra. In response, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde flew to Srinagar on Wednesday to expedite the evacuation process. His office stated that Mr. Shinde’s prompt action demonstrated his commitment to aiding citizens in crisis.  

Similarly, Maharashtra Disaster Management Minister Girish Mahajan also traveled to Srinagar to facilitate the safe return of stranded tourists.  

The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) revealed on Thursday that the State government had arranged special IndiGo and Air India flights and brought back 184 tourists to Mumbai, though details about other returnees were not provided.

‘No politics involved’  

When questioned about alleged tensions within the alliance over credit for the rescue mission, Mr. Bawankule denied any discord, stating, “There is no rift in the government. Deputy CM Shinde’s visit to Srinagar was purely for assisting our citizens, as was Minister Mahajan’s, given his role in disaster management. We avoided sending additional officials to minimize VIP movement. Our sole focus is ensuring the safe return of over 3,000 tourists—there is no politics involved.”

On Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s visit to Srinagar to meet Pahalgam attack victims, Bawankule welcomed the move, saying, “All parties should unite to strengthen the nation.”