Azmi explained that his previous statements had been "twisted" and that he never meant to insult either Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj or Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj.
Controversy broke out when Azmi said Aurangzeb was "not a cruel ruler." His remark soon created a political storm with political opponents accusing him of hurting iconic figures in Maratha history. Some politicians denounced him as "anti-national" and called for sedition charges to be filed against him.
Azmi released a video on X justifying his stance.
"On March 3, following the session of the Assembly, I was told by the media that Assam's Chief Minister had equated Rahul Gandhi with Aurangzeb. In response, I spoke about Aurangzeb, but it was out of context and exaggerated as if a storm had descended upon us. I never abused anyone," he clarified.
He continued to highlight his regard for national icons, further stating, "I have Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Sambhaji Maharaj, Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar, and all those great people who struggled for equality in high esteem."
Azmi went on to clarify his remarks about Aurangzeb, stating, "When I was referring to a book by a historian about Aurangzeb, I did not mean to offend any of our great men. If, however, my words have been taken out of context and hurt someone's feelings, I withdraw them. The Assembly has serious work, and this matter must not stall it."
Azmi's clarification came subsequent to an FIR against him being registered at Wagle Estate Police Station, Thane, upon Shiv Sena MP Naresh Mhaske's complaint. Azmi has been charged with Sections 299, 302, 356(1), and 356(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), and the case has then been handed over to Marine Drive Police Station.
The row erupted when Azmi, addressing reporters in Mumbai as the Maharashtra Assembly session began, reacted to the comparison of Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee with Aurangzeb by Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma.
Azmi had asserted, "Aurangzeb built many temples. In Varanasi, he rescued a Hindu girl from a priest who was evil-minded about her and ordered the priest to be trampled by elephants."
He continued, "I don't consider Aurangzeb to be a cruel ruler. In that time, power struggles were political rather than religious. Aurangzeb’s army had many Hindus, just as Chhatrapati Shivaji’s army had a significant number of Muslims."
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