In a recent statement that has sparked significant controversy, BJP MLA Nitesh Rane defended his support for Mahant Ramgiri Maharaj, asserting that his comments were a reaction to ongoing tensions and threats faced by supporters of the religious leader. Speaking to the media, Rane addressed the uproar surrounding his remarks and emphasized the context in which they were made.
On Monday, Rane addressed the media about his recent visits to Ahilyanagar and Srirampur, where he publicly supported Ramgiri Maharaj, a religious guru currently at the center of a heated controversy. Rane dismissed the backlash, stating, “There was nothing new in the statement given by Ramgiri Maharaj ji. I can show you statements from a minimum of 10 Muslim scholars who have already mentioned the facts that Maharaj has stated.”
Rane highlighted the threats and intimidation faced by those who support Maharaj, noting that even individuals who have shared supportive messages on social media have received death threats. He referred to a rally in Pune where slogans such as ‘Sar Tan se Juda’ were chanted against Maharaj, underscoring what he perceives as a double standard. “If we come out in support of the Hindu community in the same language, why are we questioned? Let the Constitution and police do their job,” Rane said, emphasizing his frustration with what he views as unequal treatment.
Rane’s remarks also included a defense of his own controversial statement where he referred to himself as a “Hindu Gabbar Singh.” He explained that his comment was intended to reassure the Hindu community that they should not be afraid. “Yesterday’s statement was a reaction to an action. The Hindu community does not need to be scared,” Rane asserted, framing his comments as a defensive measure in response to perceived threats against Hindus.
The controversy surrounding Rane’s statements and the broader issue of support for Ramgiri Maharaj has intensified, reflecting the charged political and communal atmosphere in the region. The situation continues to develop, with reactions from various political figures and community leaders expected to shape the ongoing discourse.
Rane’s comments have been met with mixed reactions, with some defending his right to express support for Maharaj and others criticizing his language and the implications of his statements. As tensions remain high, the focus will likely remain on the interplay between political statements and communal sensitivities in Maharashtra.