Rahul Gandhi's Homage to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on His Birth Anniversary Provokes BJP's Outrage
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Synopsis
On February 19, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's tribute to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on X for his 395th birth anniversary sparked backlash from the BJP and his descendants. Critics questioned the appropriateness of the tribute, leading to calls for legal action.
Key Takeaways
- Rahul Gandhi honors Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on his birth anniversary.
- BJP leaders criticize the tribute, calling it disrespectful.
- Legal threats are made against Rahul Gandhi.
- Debate over the proper way to honor historical figures arises.
- Congress responds to the BJP's accusations.
Mumbai, Feb 19 (NationPress) The Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha and prominent Congress figure Rahul Gandhi's post on X honoring the Maratha hero Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on his 395th birth anniversary has ignited a significant controversy.
The BJP and Sambhaji Raje, the direct 13th descendant of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, have vocally condemned Rahul Gandhi, questioning the appropriateness of paying tribute on such an occasion.
In his message on X, Rahul Gandhi stated, "On the birth anniversary of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, I convey my respectful homage to him and extend my humble tribute. His valor and bravery have encouraged us to voice our opinions with courage and unwavering commitment. His legacy will forever serve as an inspiration for everyone."
BJP legislator Atul Bhatkhalkar harshly criticized the Congress leader, even threatening legal repercussions.
"By honoring Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on his birth anniversary, Rahul Gandhi has disrespected the entire state of Maharashtra and its people. He is intentionally or unintentionally showing disregard for the great figures of Maharashtra and India. This is characteristic of him. He should retract this post; otherwise, he may face legal consequences," he cautioned.
BJP figure and Minister of Ports and Shipping Nitesh Rane also criticized Rahul Gandhi's message.
Former MP Sambhaji Raje also expressed discontent regarding Rahul Gandhi's tribute. "Does anyone truly honor on their birth anniversary?" he queried in his post on X.
The Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi, led by Prakash Ambedkar, also voiced their criticism of Rahul Gandhi. In a post on X, the Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi remarked, "Rahul Gandhiji, you salute and do not pay tribute on your birth anniversary. Your phrasing is disrespectful. Please apologize and learn the distinction between salute and tribute."
In response, state Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal urged the BJP not to escalate the controversy.
State Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe asserted, "The BJP has also utilized the terminology mentioned by Rahul Gandhi. Daily atrocities against women occur, and unemployment continues to rise, yet the BJP shies away from addressing these issues. Instead, they choose to mock a grammatical error."
