Nitesh Rane’s ‘Mini Pakistan’ Remark On Kerala Sparks Political Controversy

Last Updated:December 30, 2024, 12:18 IST

Rane referred to Kerala as a “Mini Pakistan” and alleged that terrorists are the ones voting for Rahul Gandhi and his sister, Priyanka Gandhi.

This is not the first time Nitesh Rane has been at the centre of controversy due to his provocative statements. (Image: PTI)

Maharashtra’s newly appointed minister, Nitesh Rane, has ignited a political firestorm with his recent comments about Kerala and Congress MP Rahul Gandhi. During an event in Saswad, Pune, commemorating Shiv Pratap Din, Rane referred to Kerala as a “Mini Pakistan" and alleged that terrorists are the ones voting for Rahul Gandhi and his sister, Priyanka Gandhi.

Rane’s statements were made during a celebration marking the historical defeat of Afzal Khan by Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. In his speech, Rane praised Hindu activists from Kerala, stating, “Our friends from Kerala deserve appreciation. They saved the lives of 12,000 Hindu girls. Ask us Hindutva activists how much effort it takes to rescue even one sister. Yet, these people from Kerala achieved this feat."

However, his subsequent remarks have drawn significant criticism. Rane said, “Kerala is nothing short of a Mini Pakistan. That’s why Rahul Gandhi and his sister get elected from there. All the terrorists are the ones voting for them. I am speaking the truth. These people become MPs only with the support of terrorists."

Rane further commented on religious processions, asserting that Hindu festivals should be allowed the same liberties as those of other religions. “If our processions can go on until 10 PM, so should theirs. We are not just talkers but doers. If anyone illegal needs to be taught a lesson, a single phone call will show them how the government works," he stated.

Addressing Hindutva workers directly, Rane assured them of governmental support. “You are not alone. We are with you as the government. The state has a saffron-clad Chief Minister. Hindutva activists need not fear anything. If anyone acts illegally against Hindus or the religion, we will not spare them," he emphasised.

Rane acknowledged the responsibilities that come with his ministerial position, noting, “As a minister, I now have certain responsibilities and limitations. But the work of Hindutva must continue with full strength."

These comments have elicited strong reactions from opposition parties. Congress leaders have accused Rane of spreading hatred and making unfounded allegations. Congress leader Atul Londhe Patil reacted strongly to Maharashtra Rane calling Kerala ‘mini Pakistan’. “What else can we expect from him. But I have to ask PM Modi, Devendra Fadnavis, how can somebody after calling our own state Pakistan remain in the cabinet? We take the pledge of unity… I expect from both of them, who give patriotic talks, to ensure such people are not in cabinet."

Political analysts suggest that such statements could exacerbate tensions between the BJP-led government and the opposition in Maharashtra, further intensifying the state’s already charged political atmosphere.

This is not the first time Nitesh Rane has been at the centre of controversy due to his provocative statements. In the past, he has faced criticism for making inflammatory remarks against minority communities. For instance, earlier this year, Rane was booked for allegedly threatening to harm Muslims, leading to accusations that the BJP was attempting to incite communal tensions ahead of state assembly elections.

The controversy surrounding Rane’s comments is expected to continue, with calls from various quarters for accountability and a re-examination of the responsibilities that come with public office. As the situation develops, it remains to be seen how this will influence the political landscape in Maharashtra and beyond.

News politics Nitesh Rane’s ‘Mini Pakistan’ Remark On Kerala Sparks Political Controversy