Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has come under sharp criticism from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) after sharing a social media post referring to reports of protests and the burning of Albania’s Supreme Court. In his post, Raut suggested that countries, “especially India,” should learn lessons from the developments in Albania, claiming that public anger had erupted because the country’s Supreme Court was allegedly helping corrupt leaders. The post quickly sparked political controversy, with BJP leaders accusing him of making remarks that could be interpreted as a threat to India’s constitutional institutions.

Reacting strongly, BJP spokesperson C.R. Kesavan described Raut’s comments as “outrageous” and accused him of using language that undermines India’s sovereignty and democratic institutions. BJP leader Kirit Somaiya also criticised Raut, alleging that he was encouraging anarchy and repeatedly targeting constitutional bodies, including the President, the Election Commission and the Supreme Court. Several BJP leaders demanded that Raut apologise to the Supreme Court, arguing that his remarks were inappropriate and could be seen as endorsing violence against democratic institutions.

Facing mounting criticism, Sanjay Raut later clarified that his comments were not directed against India’s Supreme Court and insisted that he had complete faith in the country’s highest judicial institution. He said his intention was to warn that continued political developments could lead to chaos if not addressed, adding that the Supreme Court alone could safeguard the Constitution and the nation. Meanwhile, Congress leader Udit Raj defended Raut’s observations by linking the controversy to concerns over judicial decisions in bail cases. Shiv Sena leader Anand Dubey also weighed in, stating that India would never allow itself to descend into violence or instability like some other countries, emphasizing that justice and constitutional values would ultimately prevail.