Maharashtra Opposition Demands Dismissal of Minister Nitesh Rane for Controversial Statements
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Synopsis
On March 18, the opposition in Maharashtra protested against BIP Minister Nitesh Rane, demanding his removal for allegedly spreading hatred. Legislators from Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (SP) chanted slogans advocating for peace in Nagpur. Rane's controversial statements regarding Aurangzeb and community relations have sparked significant backlash.
Key Takeaways
- Opposition demands Minister Nitesh Rane's removal.
- Slogans for peace resonate in the Assembly protest.
- Allegations of inciting community conflict against Rane.
- Rane's inflammatory comments on Aurangzeb's grave ignite controversy.
- Calls for accountability amid recent violence in Nagpur.
Mumbai, March 18 (NationPress) On Tuesday, the Opposition held a demonstration at the entrance of the Assembly, urging the removal of BIP Minister Nitesh Rane from his position due to accusations of spreading hatred.
Legislators from Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (SP) shouted slogans such as "Dangal Namo, Shantata Havi (We want peace, not riots)" and "Shantata Priya Maharashtra Hava, Dangal Mukt Maharashtra Hava (A peaceful Maharashtra, free from riots)."
Congress Legislature Party leader Vijay Wadettiwar expressed, "Nagpur is known for its tranquility, yet it has faced attacks from pro-ruling factions. This unrest is attributed to a minister who has made nonsensical and inciting comments. The Chief Minister must act swiftly to remove this minister, as intentional efforts are being made to foster hatred and instigate conflict between communities, driven by the ruling alliance. Residents of Nagpur must uphold peace to prevent any unfortunate incidents."
He further commented, "It is regrettable that violence and vandalism occurred in such a peaceful location as Nagpur. Over the past few days, a cabinet minister has been stirring up trouble with his remarks, leading to discord between communities. If action had been taken sooner against this minister, we might not have reached this point. It is particularly unfortunate that this incident happened in the Chief Minister's home district, who also serves as the Home Minister. Accountability must be established for those responsible for this situation."
Wadettiwar alleged that Minister Rane has been making divisive statements for the past four months, emphasizing the need to intervene and prevent further division, particularly in light of the recent violence in Nagpur.
Rane recently ignited controversy with his comments regarding the grave of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb located in Khuldabad, Sambhaji Nagar (previously Aurangzeb district). He suggested that the day is approaching when the tomb will be dismantled, adding that there were no Muslims in Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s army. He also encouraged people to purchase 'Malhar Certified' mutton, which endorses ‘jhatka’ mutton shops.
On Monday, Rane provoked further outrage by likening Aurangzeb’s grave to a toilet. "This grave should not remain here; even if it were labeled a toilet, that would not be incorrect. The treatment faced by our Chhatrapati Shivaji and Sambhaji is not something we should keep in our state. This is the stance our Chief Minister has taken, and this filth will not endure for long. You will hear the breaking news soon," he declared.
