Jharkhand Minister Sudivya Kumar's Controversial Remarks on Pahalgam Terror Attack and Accountability

Jharkhand minister Sudivya Kumar has sparked controversy with his comments on national mourning and the Centre's accountability after the Pahalgam attack. Kumar, who manages portfolios like Urban Development, Higher Education, and Tourism, suggested that Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu should resign for failing to protect citizens during the Kashmir attack.

On Tuesday, terrorists attacked Baisaran in Pahalgam, Kashmir, killing 26 people, mostly tourists from other states. Kumar questioned why national mourning wasn't declared if the country stands with the bereaved families. He criticised the prime minister, defence minister, and home minister for not taking responsibility for the security lapse.

Political Reactions to Kumar's Remarks

The opposition BJP has strongly criticised Kumar's statements. Babulal Marandi, Leader of Opposition and former Jharkhand BJP president, called his remarks shameful and disgraceful. Marandi stated that Kumar's sarcasm reflects deep-rooted arrogance and madness. "His behaviour is extremely embarrassing," Marandi added.

Former minister and BJP legislator C P Singh also mocked Kumar, suggesting he has lost his mental balance. Singh expressed disappointment in a post on X, saying he once considered Kumar a serious politician but now sees him as losing his mental stability.

Kumar's Clarification and Historical References

On Friday, Kumar clarified that his comments were sarcastic, stressing that accountability should be established at the highest level. He questioned who would respond if the prime minister doesn't. Citing historical precedents of moral accountability, he mentioned resignations by Lal Bahadur Shastri and Nitish Kumar as railway ministers and Shivraj Patil as home minister after national tragedies.

Kumar highlighted that earlier leaders set high standards by accepting moral responsibility. He questioned why this practice is missing now. Referring to the Pahalgam incident where six terrorists infiltrated from 300 km away, he asked whose failure it was if not the Centre's.

Controversial Statements on Leadership

Kumar also controversially referred to Mehbooba Mufti as not accountable for the incident. His remarks have drawn criticism from various political figures. Despite attempts to reach him for further comment, Kumar was unavailable.

The controversy surrounding Kumar's statements continues to unfold as political leaders react to his remarks. The situation highlights ongoing debates about accountability and leadership in times of national tragedy.