Sanjay Raut challenges Modi over student protest remarks

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut dismissed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent claims of forgiving student protesters, asserting that the students never sought absolution and remain committed to their cause. Raut characterized the Prime Minister's social media commentary as a scripted narrative detached from the reality of the ongoing demonstrations.

Editorial·August 3, 2026·reads: 2,505

Sanjay Raut challenges Modi over student protest remarks

Raut questioned the premise of the Prime Minister’s Instagram reel, noting that protesters at Jantar Mantar have made no overtures for forgiveness. According to the UBT leader, the students are standing firm in their opposition, rendering the Prime Minister's public gesture performative rather than reconciliatory.

Beyond the protest row, Raut pivoted to the allegations of missing funds at the Ram Mandir. He demanded clarity on the reported disappearance of approximately 550 crore rupees from the 1,400 crore rupee donation pool. The matter is currently under scrutiny by a Special Investigation Team, yet the political friction surrounding the temple funds continues to escalate.

The tension reached a boiling point following a clash at the residence of Purnia MP Pappu Yadav. Yadav, who recently drew fire for a skit involving a priest's attire, alleged a targeted assassination attempt during a press conference. He claimed that an assailant armed with a knife was apprehended by his supporters after a bounty was allegedly placed on his head. Raut warned that the government would face consequences if such violence against elected officials persists.