Samajwadi Party (SP) leader Abu Azmi stirred a massive controversy on Monday by calling Mughal emperor Aurangzeb a “good administrator.” Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde labeled the remark as “treason” and demanded legal action against Azmi. Known for his contentious statements, Azmi praised Aurangzeb, asserting that he was not a ruthless leader and that his actions were driven by power struggles rather than religious motives. Azmi argued that Aurangzeb’s rule saw both temples and mosques destroyed and that many Hindus supported him. He emphasized that the country should be governed by the Constitution and that his comments were not against Hindus.
Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde came down heavily on Abu Azmi for his remark and reminded him that it was Aurangzeb who tortured Chhatrapati Shambhaji Maharaj.
“His statement is wrong and should be condemned. Aurangzeb tortured Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj for 40 days; calling such a person good is the biggest sin, and hence, Abu Azmi should apologize. Our CM has taken this matter seriously. He should be charged with treason,” said Shinde.
