By The Sampadak Express
A controversial remark by Maharashtra Congress President Harshvardhan Sapkal, comparing Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, has ignited a fierce political debate in the state. Sapkal’s statement, made at a press conference on Sunday, led to a massive uproar in the state legislative council, with ruling Mahayuti legislators demanding immediate action.
Sapkal, in his controversial statement, had said, “Aurangzeb was a cruel ruler. Today, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is an equally cruel ruler. He always supports issues related to religion but does nothing about cases like the murder of sarpanch Santosh Deshmukh.”
BJP Slams Sapkal’s Comparison
The BJP was quick to condemn Sapkal’s comments, calling the comparison “highly condemnable” and an insult to Maharashtra. BJP leader Pravin Darekar raised the issue in the council, demanding strict action against Sapkal and calling for a case to be filed against him.”
Comparing the Chief Minister, who is efficiently governing the state, to Aurangzeb is not just unjust but an attack on the integrity of Maharashtra,” Darekar stated.BJP MP Bhagwat Karad also strongly criticized Sapkal’s remarks, calling them “very wrong and condemnable.” He praised Fadnavis for his governance, describing him as a leader with experience working towards a “Viksit Maharashtra.” Karad further referred to the comparison as “childish.”
Opposition Voices Disapproval
While the BJP condemned Sapkal’s remarks, opposition leaders expressed mixed reactions. Opposition leader Ambadas Danve condemned the personal attack but went on to accuse the BJP-led state government of possessing an “Aurangzeb-like mentality.”
NCP(SP) leader Shashikant Shinde echoed similar sentiments, while NCP’s Rohit Pawar expressed concerns about using Aurangzeb as a comparison. Pawar said, “Politically, we should oppose everyone, but comparing anyone to Aurangzeb is inappropriate. The statement might have been made based on the functioning of this government.”
Congress Denies Allegations
Despite the backlash, Congress leader Bhai Jagtap dismissed the allegations, asserting that Sapkal never made such a statement.
Government Promises Action
In response to the controversy, State Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule assured the House that the government would seriously consider taking action against Sapkal for his “objectionable” remarks.
The incident has added fuel to the ongoing political tension in Maharashtra, with both the ruling alliance and opposition parties intensifying their war of words.
