By Vishwapati
Patna: JD(U) MLC Khalid Anwar has backed SP MLA Abu Azmi’s controversial statement in the Maharashtra Assembly, in which Azmi referred to Mughal ruler Aurangzeb as a great leader. This endorsement has sparked internal strife within the JD(U), splitting the party into two opposing factions. Several JD(U) leaders have openly criticised the act of glorifying Aurangzeb, condemning any association with such sentiments.
Abu Azmi, the SP MLA, was suspended from the ongoing session of the Maharashtra Assembly for his remarks praising Aurangzeb. The issue has now triggered a political storm in Bihar, with the JD(U) facing internal division over Anwar’s stance. Khalid Anwar not only described Aurangzeb as a great ruler but also labelled Azmi’s suspension as unjust.
In response, JD(U) MLA Dr Sanjeev voiced strong opposition to Anwar’s remarks, stating, “It is utterly wrong for anyone to glorify Aurangzeb. He was an extremely cruel ruler. If Aurangzeb were alive today, the Government of India would have hanged him. He was anti-Hindu, and anyone who praises such a tyrant should be sent to Pakistan, Bangladesh, or the Gaza Strip. Even if an MLC from our own party supports this view, we openly oppose it.”
Dr Sanjeev further added, “Aurangzeb was responsible for the deaths of countless Hindus. Cities named after him should be renamed.” He also urged JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar to take immediate action by expelling such defiant MLAs from the party.
(The author, Vishwapati, is a senior journalist based in Patna. He may be contacted at vishwapati25@gmail.com)
