Amid ongoing tensions in the state following the recent violence at Nagpur unleashed by the Islamists out of their love for Aurangzeb and because of the rumours of cloth burning by the Hindu groups which had Islamic verses written, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar hosted an iftar party in Mumbai. Speaking at the event in Marine Lines, Mumbai, Ajit Pawar urged people to reject divisive forces and embrace India’s unity in diversity. “We have just celebrated Holi, and now Gudi Padwa and Eid are approaching. These festivals teach us to live together. We should celebrate them collectively because unity is our real strength,” he said, assuring the Muslim community of his unwavering support.
Ajit Pawara apart from stressing upon the month of Ramdan issued a stern warning against those attempting to create communal disharmony. “Anyone who threatens our Muslim brothers and sisters, incites violence, or takes the law into their own hands whoever they are will not be spared or forgiven,” he asserted.
The iftar gathering took place in the backdrop of the Aurangzeb controversy in Maharashtra, ignited by the release of the movie ‘Chhava’. The film, based on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj’s life, has reinforced his legacy as a martyr, intensifying anti-Aurangzeb sentiments. Hindu groups demanded the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb in reponse to whom the Islamist came out on the streets rioting in Nagpur, particularly in the Mahal area near Chitnis Park,and torching vehicles, shops that belonged to Hindus. The unrest left several policemen injured, prompting the police to arrest over 100 people and enforce a curfew with prohibitory orders in affected areas.
Ajit Pawar had earlier lashed out at the Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane for his remark that Muslims were not part of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s army. Ajit Pawar dismissed such claims, stating that Shivaji Maharaj never discriminated based on caste or religion. “Maharashtra is home to many patriotic Muslims, and historical evidence proves their key contributions during Shivaji Maharaj’s reign,” he said. It must be noted that NCP which is led by Ajit Pawar is under the alliance of BJP led NDA.
