The political temperature heated up as Samajwadi Party leader and Maharashtra MLA Abu Asim Azmi made statements about Aurangzeb. BJP leader Navneet Rana countered, "A legislator claimed Aurangzeb ruled Maharashtra with grace. Let me remind you, Maharashtra's assembly greets you courtesy Shivaji Maharaj and Sambhaji Maharaj. Your figure, Aurangzeb, tormented Sambhaji Maharaj!"
Navneet Rana continued, expressing her desire for the Maharashtra government to rename Aurangabad in honor of Sambhaji Maharaj, suggesting Aurangzeb's grave meet a destructive end.
Rana urged watching the film "Chava" to reveal the tyranny faced by Sambhaji Maharaj.
Clarifications by Abu Azmi
In response to the uproar, Abu Asim Azmi clarified on social media, "I could never disrespect Shivaji Maharaj or Sambhaji Maharaj. My statements were manipulated. My comments on Aurangzeb mirrored historians’ perspectives. I have not insulted any revered figures."
Azmi sought forgiveness unconditionally if his statements offended anyone, emphasizing the historical accounts from Prashant Koratkar and Rahul Solapurkar about Shivaji and Sambhaji Maharaj also deserve attention.
Legal Implications for Abu Azmi
An FIR against Abu Azmi was initially lodged in Naupada Police Station due to his remarks on Aurangzeb, then transferred to Marine Drive Police Station. It is registered under sections 299, 302, 356(1), 356(2) BNS with CR number 59/25, and investigations continue.
Protests in Thane
The impact of Abu Azmi's remarks rippled through Thane, as Maratha Kranti Morcha and the broader Maratha community led protests. Outside Thane District Collector's office, demonstrators sought justice, symbolically burning Abu Azmi’s effigy.
Navneet Rana’s statements have fueled a political tussle between communities.
2023
Abu Azmi’s defensive video, aimed at setting records straight, reflects ongoing tension in Maharashtra's socio-political landscape.
