Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi has been suspended from the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly for the entire session. The suspension follows his controversial speech praising the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb.
Mumbai: Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi has been suspended from the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly for the entire session following his speech praising Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. The proposal for his suspension was moved by the state's Parliamentary Affairs Minister, Chandrakant Patil, during Wednesday's session and was subsequently approved by the house.
Speech Sparks Political Uproar
In his speech, Azmi referred to Aurangzeb as a "just" ruler and claimed that India flourished as a "golden bird" during his reign. He further asserted that Hindu-Muslim conflicts during Aurangzeb's rule were not religious in nature, but rather part of power struggles. This statement ignited political tension in the state, with the BJP, Shiv Sena, and other parties demanding action against him.
Government Takes Strong Action
Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, criticized the speech, calling it an affront to the state's religious sentiments and advocating for b action. Moving the suspension motion in the Assembly, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Chandrakant Patil stated, "Abu Azmi's remarks have angered the people of the state. Maharashtra is the land of warriors, and such statements insult our history. Therefore, he is being suspended for the entire session."
Azmi Apologizes
Amidst the escalating controversy, Azmi attempted to clarify his remarks, claiming they were misrepresented. He wrote on social media, "What I said has also been said by historians and writers. I have not insulted Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Sambhaji Maharaj, or any other great personality. However, if anyone's feelings have been hurt, I withdraw my statement."
Azmi's speech and the subsequent political fallout have introduced a new twist in the state's political landscape. Opposition parties have questioned the government's actions. The coming days will reveal whether this controversy will subside or escalate further.
