MUMBAI: Continuing his attack on divisive elements, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday raised concerns about the recent surge in Aurangzeb-related content, which he asserted was a deliberate attempt to sow discord and instigate clashes within the state.
“We will conduct a thorough investigation, and we are actively gathering information from the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) and Intelligence Bureau (IB). If necessary, we are prepared to establish a dedicated Special Investigation Team (SIT) to delve into the matter,” emphasized Fadnavis during the concluding day of Maharashtra’s Monsoon Assembly Session.
Communal incitement poses a significant hindrance to the development and progress of Maharashtra, said Fadnavis. A few months ago, certain individuals’ social media posts glorifying Aurangzeb ignited tensions and led to unfortunate clashes in various parts of our state, including Ahmednagar and Beed districts.
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“Aurangzeb can never be revered as a hero by any Indian… The true heroes of our nation are exemplified by figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji, Chhatrapati Sambhaji, and APJ Abdul Kalam,” Fadnavis added.
Previously, during Wednesday’s session in the Maharashtra Assembly, tensions escalated as the Aurangzeb issue took center stage. BJP Legislator Nitesh Rane raised an attention motion, shedding light on incidents of praising Aurangzeb in the state over recent months. Rane in his statement suggested that those who admire Aurangzeb should express their admiration in his historical land rather than on the sacred soil of Shivaji Maharaj.
In response to the concerns raised, Fadnavis assured a thorough investigation into the matter. However, Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Asim Azmi questioned what he perceived as a double standard in the government’s approach. Azmi pointed out that while action was being taken against some individuals for posting content related to Aurangzeb on social media, no similar actions were taken against Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) leader Prakash Ambedkar for visiting Aurangzeb’s grave in Aurangabad.
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Fadnavis clarified that he personally appealed to Ambedkar not to glorify Aurangzeb. However, visiting a historical grave is not a crime in itself, but creating communal discord and inciting clashes is a matter of concern, he emphasized.