Eknath Shinde calls Aurangzeb admirers 'traitors' in Maharashtra

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has called those who admire Mughal emperor Aurangzeb "traitors." He made these remarks during an event in Thane, where he unveiled a statue of Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. Shinde highlighted the differences between Aurangzeb’s actions and Shivaji's legacy of bravery and sacrifice. At the event celebrating Shivaji Jayanti, Shinde spoke about Aurangzeb's attempts to conquer Maharashtra and his cruel actions. He contrasted this with Shivaji's role as a symbol of Hindutva and Indian pride. Shinde emphasized that Shivaji was not only a courageous leader but also a promoter of democratic values. His comments come amid calls from right-wing groups to remove Aurangzeb's tomb in Maharashtra. On the same day, there were reports of violence in Nagpur related to these tensions. Shinde condemned Aurangzeb's actions, citing the execution of Shivaji's son, Sambhaji Maharaj, as one of his atrocities. Shinde urged the public to adopt the virtues of Shivaji Maharaj in their lives. He announced that Gharda Chowk would be renamed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Chowk. The audience reacted positively to this announcement with applause and slogans in honor of Shivaji. Shinde reaffirmed his administration's commitment to development and governance based on Shivaji's principles.