Mumbai, February 17: The display of a portrait of Tipu Sultan in the office of the Deputy Mayor of Malegaon has sparked a heated controversy. Shiv Sena leader Krishna Hegde criticized the Deputy Mayor, stating that she is new to politics and lacks an understanding of Maharashtra’s historical sensitivities.
In an interview with a news agency, Hegde emphasized that Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his son Sambhaji Maharaj are revered figures in Maharashtra, known for their struggles to protect religion and establish Hindavi Swaraj. He accused Tipu Sultan’s regime of committing atrocities against Hindus and destroying temples, deeming it inappropriate to display his portrait in a government office. Hegde condemned the decision to reinstall the portrait after it was removed by the administration, asserting that Tipu Sultan fought against the British to protect his territory, and cannot be compared to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj or Sambhaji Maharaj.
Additionally, Hegde addressed recent statements made by senior Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar, noting that Aiyar has long been disgruntled with the party and has criticized leaders such as Rahul Gandhi, Shashi Tharoor, and K.C. Venugopal. However, he characterized this as an internal matter for Congress, suggesting that neither Shiv Sena nor the Bharatiya Janata Party should comment on it. He stated that Congress must resolve its organizational issues independently, and any action regarding Aiyar is entirely a decision for the party.
Hegde also mentioned that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is visiting Mumbai, alongside French President Emmanuel Macron, as they inaugurate the Indo-France Summit. He highlighted that discussions are taking place with major industrial groups and business leaders on topics such as artificial intelligence, data sharing, and technological collaboration. Hegde indicated that a new agreement between India and France is on the horizon, which is expected to enhance trade and investment opportunities between the two nations.
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