BJP and Shiv Sena Criticize Congress Leader for Comparing Maha CM Fadnavis to Aurangzeb

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Harshwardhan Sapkal's comments ignited political backlash.
- BJP and Shiv Sena leaders defended Fadnavis's integrity.
- Historical context regarding Aurangzeb is a sensitive topic.
- Tensions over Aurangzeb’s grave removal continue to escalate.
- Legal protocols regarding historical sites are emphasized.
New Delhi, March 17 (NationPress) The ongoing dispute regarding Mughal emperor Aurangzeb has stirred new controversies in Maharashtra, following a provocative statement from state Congress head Harshwardhan Sapkal, who likened Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to the notorious ruler.
Sapkal characterized Fadnavis as being as 'cruel' as Aurangzeb, igniting strong reactions from both the BJP and Shiv Sena.
Sapkal's comments emerged during his critique of Fadnavis, asserting, 'Aurangzeb was a cruel ruler. He imprisoned his own father and often used religion to further his rule.'
His remarks were met with immediate backlash, as political figures from the BJP and Shiv Sena condemned the Congress for disrespecting Maharashtra's identity.
Shiv Sena leader Manisha Kayande fiercely criticized the Congress, drawing parallels to an earlier statement from her colleague Sanjay Raut.
In a statement to IANS, Manisha Kayande remarked, 'If leaders like Sanjay Raut had existed during Aurangzeb's reign, they would have faced severe repercussions for such comments.'
BJP leader Ram Kadam responded by defending Fadnavis, describing him as a leader of unmatched integrity.
'Devendra ji’s character is transparent and flawless. Congress leaders should reflect on their own standing.' Kadam stated.
Pramod Krishnam, a former Congress leader, expressed strong disapproval of Sapkal’s comments, calling Fadnavis a patriotic leader devoted to historical figures such as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Maharana Pratap, and Lord Ram.
'To make such unfounded accusations against a leader like Fadnavis is absurd. The Congress has tarnished its own image with such remarks,' he added, demanding an apology from the Congress leader.
This controversy arises amid escalating tensions over the removal of Aurangzeb’s grave in Khuldabad, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, intensifying the discussion surrounding historical legacies. There has been a noticeable decline in visitors to the tomb of Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
The Maharashtra Chief Minister acknowledged that many people feel the tomb of Aurangzeb should be eliminated. However, he stressed that any actions taken must comply with legal protocols, highlighting that the site is protected under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).