Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA Abu Azmi in Maharashtra has once again found himself at the center of controversy. His praise of Aurangzeb led to a major uproar in the state assembly, resulting in his suspension until the end of the session.
Mumbai: Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA Abu Azmi in Maharashtra is once again embroiled in controversy. His statement praising Aurangzeb caused a significant commotion in the state assembly, leading to his suspension until the session's conclusion. Now, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has declared in the Legislative Council that Azmi will be "sent to jail with 100% certainty."
On Wednesday, in the Legislative Council, the Leader of the Opposition and leader of the Uddhav Thackeray faction, Ambadas Danve, questioned the government about the lack of legal action against Abu Azmi. Fadnavis clarified that Azmi would undoubtedly face imprisonment for his statements. Ruling party MLAs also expressed their outrage, stating that praising Aurangzeb is an insult to Maratha history and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
Shiv Sena's Strong Stance
In the Legislative Council, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray demanded stricter action against Abu Azmi, asserting that no one should dare to speak against national heroes. He appealed to the government to permanently suspend Azmi from the assembly. Amidst this controversy, Azmi released a video from his office clarifying his position.
He stated, "I did not make any wrong statement, but to ensure the smooth functioning of the House, I withdrew my remarks. Even so, I have been suspended." However, the ruling party appeared unconvinced by his explanation and continued to demand b action against him.
What did Abu Azmi say?
In his statement, Azmi said, "During Aurangzeb's reign, India's borders extended to Afghanistan and Burma. At that time, India's GDP was 24% of the global GDP, and it was called the Golden Bird." When questioned about the conflict between Aurangzeb and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, he termed it a "political battle."
Azmi's comments ignited Maharashtra's political landscape. The BJP and Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) labeled it an insult to Maratha pride and demanded a sedition case against him. Conversely, opposition parties accused the BJP of exploiting the issue politically. Fadnavis's statement clearly indicates the Maharashtra government's intention to adopt a b stance against Abu Azmi.
However, it remains to be seen whether the government will pursue legal action against him or if the matter will remain confined to political rhetoric.
