The Jeffrey Epstein sex scandal has sent shockwaves across the globe, and its ripples are now being felt in Indian politics as well. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has made explosive allegations, directly naming Union Minister Hardeep Singh Puri in connection with the controversy and demanding his immediate resignation.
Speaking to the media, Raut alleged that Puri misused his official position to facilitate visas for individuals linked to Epstein. He questioned whether such actions could have taken place without the consent of the Prime Minister, asserting that the Modi government was now “trapped” in the scandal. Raut said the revelations had the potential to trigger a political earthquake in India, much like the turmoil witnessed in other countries.
The Epstein case has already shocked the global power circles, with the names of influential politicians and top business leaders emerging from multiple countries. In the UK, the scandal has reportedly caused major political tremors, even threatening the stability of the Prime Minister’s position.
Raut warned that India could face similar consequences if the allegations are not addressed seriously.
Raut further claimed that documents related to the Epstein case indicate links with a minister from the Modi cabinet. “The relationship between Epstein and people close to this government appears disturbingly close,” he said, alleging that visas were granted to Epstein’s associates through an abuse of power. “Was this done without the Prime Minister’s knowledge?” Raut asked.
He added that while he would refrain from commenting further on the Epstein files, senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi was capable of addressing the issue in detail. Drawing a comparison, Raut referred to the divorce of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, suggesting that even suspicion of association with Epstein had serious personal consequences abroad.
“Despite such serious doubts hanging over them, our ministers continue to govern the country,” he added.
Responding to claims from the Central Secretariat that there was a possible threat to the Prime Minister within Parliament, Raut dismissed the assertion as “nonsense.” He said opposition leaders were well aware of parliamentary rules and traditions, having been part of the institution long before Narendra Modi entered national politics. “Who is the Prime Minister under threat from? The Congress?” Raut asked, calling such claims absurd and disrespectful to a party that played a key role in India’s freedom struggle.
Raut further said, if the country faced any real danger, it was from the Modi administration itself. He recalled the assassinations of Indira Gandhi and Rajiv Gandhi, saying the Congress leadership had made sacrifices for the nation while standing among the people. “Have Modi or BJP leaders ever made such sacrifices?” he asked.
He alleged that policies under the current government had led to violence and instability, from Kashmir to Manipur, resulting in the loss of innocent lives.
Further, MP Raut accused the government of weakening India’s sovereignty through its foreign and trade policies, claiming the country was being pushed into dependence on the United States.
Calling the government “fearful,” Raut said it was laughable to suggest that protests by MPs posed a threat to the Prime Minister. He pointed out that similar demonstrations had taken place during the tenures of Rajiv Gandhi and Manmohan Singh without such claims being made. “This is a timid government,” Raut said, mocking the Prime Minister’s oft-cited “56-inch chest” remark and accusing him of bowing before former US President Donald Trump.
