Ajit Pawar Warns Against Communal Intimidation, Promises Stern Action

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has issued a strong warning against those attempting to intimidate the Muslim community or incite communal discord in the state. Addressing an Iftar gathering in Mumbai, Pawar emphasized the importance of social harmony, especially in the wake of recent communal violence in Nagpur.

“If anyone dares to intimidate our Muslim brothers and sisters or tries to create communal discord, they will not be spared,” Pawar declared, as quoted by ANI. Reassuring the Muslim community of his unwavering support, he added, “Your brother Ajit Pawar is with you.”

Nagpur Violence: Arrests & Political Fallout

Pawar’s remarks come after violent clashes erupted in Nagpur following rumors that religious books were burned during a right-wing protest demanding the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb. The unrest led to stone-pelting at police forces, prompting authorities to impose a curfew, which has now been lifted.

As of Friday, police have arrested 105 individuals, including 14 more suspects—10 of whom are juveniles. The incident has fueled heated political debates, especially as the ruling Mahayuti government continues to push for Aurangzeb’s grave to be removed from Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

Pawar’s Call for Communal Unity

The NCP leader stressed the need to uphold India’s legacy of unity in diversity, particularly with upcoming festivals like Gudi Padwa and Eid.

“Great leaders like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Dr. BR Ambedkar, and Jyotiba Phule championed social progress by embracing all religions and communities. We must continue their legacy. India thrives on its diversity, and festivals like Holi, Gudi Padwa, and Eid remind us to live in harmony. Our real strength lies in unity,” Pawar said.

Iftar Diplomacy: Political Leaders Come Together

Meanwhile, in a show of political unity, the Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) hosted an Iftar gathering in Delhi, attended by several senior opposition leaders. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, and MP Shashi Tharoor were among the attendees. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav and MP Jaya Bachchan also participated in the event.

Pawar’s strong stance on communal harmony and the ongoing political discourse highlights the deepening tensions surrounding religious and political narratives in Maharashtra.