MOHAMMAD ZIYAUDDIN
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New Delhi: A fresh political controversy has erupted in Maharashtra after Samajwadi Party (SP) leader and MLA Abu Azmi defended Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, claiming that historical narratives had been distorted and that Aurangzeb was not a cruel ruler. Azmi even stated that Aurangzeb “built many temples”, sparking strong reactions from Maharashtra’s political leaders.
Eknath Shinde Demands Apology, Calls Azmi’s Remarks “Unacceptable”
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde strongly condemned Azmi’s statements, calling them "wrong and unacceptable."
“Aurangzeb was responsible for the brutal 40-day torture of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj. Calling Aurangzeb good is the biggest sin. Abu Azmi must apologize immediately. This is an insult to Maharashtra’s heritage, and he should be charged with treason.”
Shinde emphasized that the Maharashtra government would take this matter seriously and warned against any attempts to glorify a historical figure responsible for atrocities against Marathas.
Shiv Sena & BJP Slam Abu Azmi, Demand His Arrest
Azmi’s remarks have drawn fierce backlash from Shiv Sena (UBT) and BJP leaders:
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray accused Azmi of insulting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj by praising Aurangzeb. He demanded Azmi’s immediate arrest for hurting Hindu sentiments.
BJP leader Ram Kadam condemned Azmi, urging him to study history properly before making such statements.
"If Abu Azmi really wants to understand Aurangzeb’s cruelty, he should read history and watch ‘Chhaava.’”
Kadam also reminded the public that Azmi had made similar remarks in 2023, which resulted in death threats and a police case against him in Mumbai.
Controversy Flares Amid Release of ‘Chhaava’ Movie
The political firestorm coincides with the release of the Bollywood film ‘Chhaava’, which narrates the life and struggles of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj—the son of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj—against the Mughal Empire and Aurangzeb.
Movie Details:
- Vicky Kaushal as Sambhaji Maharaj
- Rashmika Mandanna as Yesubai Bhonsale (Sambhaji’s wife)
- Akshaye Khanna as Aurangzeb
- Directed by: Laxman Utekar
- Produced by: Maddock Films
- Box Office: ₹500 crore worldwide (Day 16)
The film’s huge success has reignited discussions on Aurangzeb’s history, making Azmi’s comments even more controversial.
What’s Next?
- Will Abu Azmi face legal action for his remarks?
- Will Maharashtra’s government introduce stricter measures against statements glorifying Aurangzeb?
- How will this controversy impact Maharashtra’s political landscape ahead of elections?
As political tensions rise, all eyes are on Maharashtra’s leaders to see what actions will be taken against Abu Azmi in the coming days.
