All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief, Asaduddin Owaisi, responded sharply to Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, after his controversial "Aurangazeb ki aulaad" (descendants of Aurangzeb) remarks. Owaisi, known for his strong rhetoric, questioned Fadnavis about the offspring of Nathuram Godse and Vaman Shivram Apte. This exchange follows the recent Kolhapur violence in Maharashtra, triggered by a protest against alleged objectionable social media posts related to Aurangzeb and Tipu Sultan.
On Wednesday, Fadnavis had stated, "Suddenly, in some districts of Maharashtra, sons of Aurangzeb took birth. They keep the status of Aurangzeb and show their posters. Because of this, there are tensions. Questions arise, where do these sons of Aurangzeb come from? Who are behind this? We will find this out." Responding to Fadnavis' remarks, Owaisi, addressing a party program on Thursday, said, "Maharashtra's Home Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, said 'Aurangzeb ke aulaad' (descendants of Aurangzeb). Do you know everything? I didn't know you were such an expert. Then you should know who the children of Godse and Apte are."
The Kolhapur incident resulted in a curfew being imposed as a violent clash broke out between two groups. Police intervened using batons to disperse the crowd and restore order.
Meanwhile, former Maharashtra Chief Minister, Sharad Pawar, called for an end to political opportunism regarding the Kolhapur incident. He stated, "Unfortunately, some people have created such a situation. This is not right for society... Common people have to pay its price... There is no need for politics in this. When this is investigated, the truth will come before everyone," while addressing reporters.
Maharashtra Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde, highlighted the government's responsibility in maintaining law and order and appealed to the public to remain peaceful.
"The government is responsible for maintaining law and order in the state. I also appeal to the public for peace and calm. The police investigation is underway, and action will be taken against those found guilty," said Shinde.