Mumbai’s political scene heated up as Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut unleashed a scathing attack on the BJP government regarding the high-stakes India-Pakistan cricket clash. In a fiery press conference on Sunday, Raut accused the matches of fueling massive illegal betting operations, with billions allegedly flowing straight to Pakistan.
Raut didn’t hold back, labeling the fixture a ‘money game’ that disrespects India’s martyrs. He pointed fingers at ICC Chairman Jay Shah, son of Home Minister Amit Shah, claiming the event reeks of favoritism. ‘If it were anyone else, the BJP would be protesting on the streets,’ he quipped, highlighting what he sees as blatant double standards.
The MP went further, alleging that the government halted military operations like ‘Operation Sindoor’ but greenlights these matches for profit. ‘This isn’t India vs Pakistan; it’s Jay Shah vs Pakistan,’ Raut declared, insisting the public wants no part in funding the enemy through gambling rackets.
Drawing stark connections, Raut revealed shocking figures: the last India-Pak encounter supposedly funneled Rs 25,000 crore to Pakistan via betting, money he claims gets rerouted to terrorists behind attacks like Pulwama, Uri, and Pathankot. ‘Gujarat and Rajasthan are hotspots for this gambling, with BJP leaders as brokers,’ he charged, implicating even state support.
Raut questioned the BJP’s priorities, asking if earning crores from matches defines their version of Hindutva. He recalled how the central government bowed to US pressure from Donald Trump to pause strikes against Pakistan, yet eagerly shakes hands for cricket. As tensions simmer ahead of the game, Raut’s outburst has sparked debates on nationalism, sports, and shadowy financial trails.