Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari has triggered political a controversy following his comments on Chhatrapati Shivaji. Speaking at a convocation ceremony of Babasaheb Ambedkar University in Aurangabad, Koshyari called Shivaji an ‘icon of old era’.
“When we were in school, our teacher used to ask us about our favourite leader and hero. Some people would say Subhas Chandra Bose, Nehru, and Gandhi. But today I feel if somebody asks you who is your favourite hero? There is no need to go outside, you will find them here in Maharashtra. Shivaji is an icon of the old era, I am talking about the new era. You will find (icons) right here. From Dr Ambedkar to Nitin Gadkari you will find them here,” he said.
Soon after Koshyari’s remarks, a flurry of criticism spewed in from the opposition. Uddhav Thackeray-led Sena and NCP demanded the Maha Governor’s resignation.
Maharashtra Governor faces opposition’s heat
Pointing out Koshyari’s remarks, Congress demanded that the Maharashtra government should be ‘recalled’.
Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole said that they “will not tolerate the insult of social reformers”.
National Congress Party (NCP) has also announced a reward of Rs 1 lakh for anyone who would tear Governor Koshyari’s dhoti.
Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena faction, Sanjay Raut demanded the removal of the governor over his comments on Shivaji. Raut also demanded CM Eknath Shinde’s resignation over the issue.
NCP leader Ajit Pawan also demanded Maha Governor’s resignation. Raj Thackeray-led MNS also slammed Koshyari over his remarks on Shivaji.
BJP issues clarification
Amid the calls for Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari’s ouster, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis gave a clarification. Fadnavis said that Koshyari’s statement ‘has been understood in a wrong way and some other meaning has been derived.’
“Till the sun and the moon are there, Maharashtra’s icon will be Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and he is our hero. There is no doubt in anybody’s heart and even that of a governor regarding Shivaji Maharaj. Many meanings were derived from his statements. Even the governor is of the view which we hold,” stated Fadnavis.
