Mumbai: There was a big argument in the Maharashtra Assembly after NCP leader Jitendra Awhad spoke about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj while discussing a new law.
The discussion was about the Maharashtra Religious Freedom Bill 2026. CM Devendra Fadnavis explained the main points of the bill and said strict action would be taken against forced religious conversions.
During the debate, Awhad criticised the government. He said the bill may not truly protect religious freedom. According to him, the law could put pressure on people who decide to change their religion.
While making his point, Awhad spoke about the history of Shivaji Maharaj’s coronation. Members of the ruling party strongly objected to his words and said the statement was not correct. Because of this, loud protests started in the Assembly.
Minister Shambhuraj Desai said that such comments about Shivaji Maharaj should not be made and asked for those words to be removed from the Assembly records. Many ruling party MLAs also demanded that Awhad apologise.
As the situation became tense, the Speaker stepped in to control the House. After this, Awhad said sorry for his statement and the matter was brought under control.
The issue created strong reactions in the Assembly and led to a heated political debate.
