The Mahanagarpalika elections are coming up, and this rhetoric of Hindu-Muslim is being raked up for electoral gains, says President of the All India Muslim OBC Organisation Shabbir Ahmed Ansari
Team Clarion
MUMBAI – A controversial statement by BJP MLA Nitesh Rane, declaring that “India is a Hindu nation and all the land here belongs to Hindus,” has triggered strong reactions from the Muslim community and various organisations in Maharashtra. Rane, representing the Kankavali assembly constituency, has come under fire for his divisive remarks, which critics say are aimed at stoking religious tension ahead of the upcoming local elections.
Shabbir Ahmed Ansari, President of the All India Muslim OBC Organisation, led the protests against Rane’s statement. Ansari accused the BJP leader of spreading hatred and manipulating history for political gains. “Nitesh Rane is spreading hatred. He should read the history of India. For centuries, not only Hindus but people of all religions have lived in this country. This is a country of people of many religions,” Ansari said. He further alleged that such remarks were part of a deliberate strategy to create fear among Muslims and divide communities for electoral gain.
Ansari also pointed out Rane’s history of anti-Muslim rhetoric and opposition to development initiatives for Muslims in Maharashtra. He highlighted Rane’s opposition to the construction of the Urdu Bhavan by the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and his past actions aimed at halting progress for Muslim welfare. “Now, after the Maharashtra elections are over, the Mahanagarpalika elections are coming up, and this rhetoric of Hindu-Muslim is being raked up,” Ansari said.
Experts suggest that the BJP may be trying to polarise the electorate in the run-up to the highly competitive Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections. The BJP’s strategy of appealing to religious sentiments is believed to be an attempt to consolidate its base, similar to the approach adopted during the state elections. Rane had also supported controversial remarks made by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, such as the slogan “Batenge toh Katenge” (“If they speak, they will be cut”).
The Muslim community’s anger over Rane’s statement is palpable, with protests held across Maharashtra, including in Mumbai. Muslim leaders and activists have called for stronger action against such divisive statements, urging political leaders to prioritise unity and inclusiveness over religious polarization.
Rane’s statement reflects the growing tension in the state as the political climate shifts in preparation for the municipal elections. While Rane defends his remarks as part of his political stance, the backlash from the Muslim community and other minority groups indicates a deepening divide that could have significant consequences for the future of Maharashtra’s politics.
