Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has taken a strong stance against Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi, condemning his controversial praise for Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Azmi, who was suspended from the Maharashtra Assembly, has stirred up a political storm by describing Aurangzeb as a good administrator. In response, Yogi Adityanath lashed out at the Samajwadi Party (SP), questioning their commitment to their founding ideology and demanding immediate action against Abu Azmi.

Yogi Adityanath stated that the Samajwadi Party has drifted away from the ideals of Dr Ram Manohar Lohia, suggesting that Aurangzeb has become their new idol. He challenged SP leadership to clarify their stance, emphasizing that anyone who praises a ruler responsible for the destruction of temples and the oppression of Hindus does not deserve to stay in India. The UP CM further remarked, “Send him to UP, we will do his treatment.”

Abu Azmi’s Controversial Remarks on Aurangzeb

Abu Azmi, the MLA from Mankhurd Shivaji Nagar, landed in trouble after commenting on the historical portrayal of Aurangzeb in the movie ‘Chhava’, a film based on Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Maratha icon Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Azmi argued that Aurangzeb was a capable administrator, stating that during his rule, India’s borders extended from Afghanistan to Burma.

His statement, however, did not sit well with political leaders, historians, and the general public, particularly in Maharashtra, where Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is revered as a symbol of Hindu pride and resistance against Mughal rule.

Yogi Adityanath’s Sharp Attack on SP and Abu Azmi

Reacting to Abu Azmi’s comments, CM Yogi Adityanath fiercely criticized Samajwadi Party’s silence, questioning why they had not condemned or expelled the MLA from their party. He accused the SP of indulging in vote bank politics and reminded them of their roots.

He said, “I want to tell Samajwadi Party leaders to believe in the thoughts of the person in whose name they do politics. Today, they are moving away from the principles of Dr Ram Manohar Lohia and making Aurangzeb their ideal.”

Furthermore, Yogi Adityanath expressed his outrage by stating, “The person who feels ashamed about the heritage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and praises a ruler like Aurangzeb, who destroyed temples, has no right to stay in our country. Why can’t the Samajwadi Party control their own MLA? Why haven’t they condemned his statement yet?”

Akhilesh Yadav’s Response to Abu Azmi’s Suspension

Following Abu Azmi’s suspension from the Maharashtra Assembly’s budget session, Samajwadi Party President Akhilesh Yadav took to social media to defend his party member. He posted on X (formerly Twitter), raising concerns over freedom of speech and ideological suppression.

Akhilesh Yadav wrote, “If the basis of suspension starts getting influenced by ideology, then what difference will there be between freedom of expression and subjection? Whether it is our MLAs or MPs, their fearless wisdom is unmatched. If some people think that by ‘suspension’ one can rein them in, then this is the childishness of their negative thinking.”

His statement hinted at SP’s refusal to take direct action against Abu Azmi, further intensifying the political rift between the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Samajwadi Party.

Political Reactions and Public Outrage

Abu Azmi’s remarks have sparked outrage across political and social circles, particularly among Maharashtra’s BJP leaders, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and Maratha organizations. Many opposition leaders have condemned his statement, calling it disrespectful to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s legacy.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders in Maharashtra have demanded stricter action against Abu Azmi, arguing that mere suspension from the Assembly session is not enough. Some have even called for legal proceedings against him for his remarks.

The controversy has also triggered sharp reactions on social media, with netizens expressing their displeasure over Abu Azmi’s comments and the lack of strict action from the Samajwadi Party. Hashtags like #AurangzebControversy, #AbuAzmiRow, and #YogiOnAzmi have been trending, with users debating historical facts, political motives, and ideological biases.

Yogi Adityanath’s Stand on Historical Legacy

Yogi Adityanath has consistently positioned himself as a defender of Hindu heritage, and this latest controversy has once again allowed him to reinforce his stance. The UP CM has been vocal about preserving India’s historical and cultural roots, often opposing attempts to glorify Mughal rulers like Aurangzeb, who are viewed negatively in Hindu historical narratives.

This is not the first time Yogi Adityanath has taken a firm stand on historical controversies. He has previously emphasized the need to highlight indigenous warriors and rulers like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Maharana Pratap, and others, rather than those who invaded and ruled India through force and oppression.

The Larger Political Implications

The ongoing controversy has widened the political divide between BJP and SP, with Akhilesh Yadav backing Abu Azmi while Yogi Adityanath continues to press for accountability. With upcoming elections in several states, the issue is likely to play a significant role in shaping political narratives and voter sentiments.

Moreover, the public outrage over Abu Azmi’s statement reflects the sensitivity of historical issues in India, where rulers like Aurangzeb continue to be subjects of debate and contention.

Conclusion

The Abu Azmi-Aurangzeb controversy has become a flashpoint in Indian politics, with Yogi Adityanath leading the charge against the Samajwadi Party and its leaders. His remarks have once again highlighted the deep ideological battle between political parties in India, particularly regarding historical narratives and their impact on contemporary politics.

While Abu Azmi has faced backlash and suspension, it remains to be seen whether Samajwadi Party will take further action against him or continue to stand by their MLA. With elections approaching, this issue is likely to remain a key talking point in the political landscape of India.

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