Controversial statement draws protests during debate on university bill
New Delhi, March 26 – A heated exchange erupted in the Lok Sabha on Wednesday after Shiv Sena leader Naresh Mhaske referred to members of the INDIA bloc as "admirers of Aurangzeb," igniting strong reactions from the opposition.
The controversy unfolded during a discussion on the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025, which proposes converting the Institute of Rural Management Anand (IRMA) in Gujarat into the Tribhuvan Sahkari University.
Mhaske likens opposition to Aurangzeb, accuses them of corruption
Taking the floor, Mhaske launched a scathing attack on the Congress and its allies, accusing them of rampant corruption during their tenure.
"During the Congress rule, corruption was carried out in the name of governance. While our government is bringing prosperity, the Congress looted farmers' money and turned the administration into a den of corruption," Mhaske alleged.
Escalating his criticism, he drew a controversial parallel between the Congress and Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, stating:
"Just like Aurangzeb imposed jizya to destroy Hindus, Congress and Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray's faction have hollowed out Maharashtra with endless scams."
He further claimed that the opposition was "fixated" on Aurangzeb and insisted that the INDIA alliance members should be labeled as admirers of the Mughal ruler.
Opposition hits back, questions relevance
Mhaske's remarks were met with immediate backlash from opposition benches. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant voiced his disapproval and questioned the relevance of the historical reference.
"Where does Aurangzeb come into the discussion on this bill?" Sawant asked, objecting to the deviation from the topic under debate.
The incident momentarily disrupted the proceedings as opposition MPs protested the comments.
About the Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill
The Tribhuvan Sahkari University Bill, 2025 aims to formally recognize IRMA in Gujarat as a university, focusing on rural management and cooperative education. The bill is part of broader efforts to strengthen cooperative institutions across India.
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