Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Thursday launched a scathing attack on Maharashtra minister Girish Mahajan over his controversial remarks on Operation Blue Star. The opposition leader accused Mahajan of making irresponsible statements that could harm national unity and communal harmony.
Pawar's Strong Reaction
Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Pawar said, "Such comments are not only insensitive but also dangerous. Operation Blue Star was a painful chapter in India's history, and any attempt to justify or glorify it is unacceptable." He demanded an apology from Mahajan and urged the state government to take disciplinary action against the minister.
The NCP chief also questioned Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's silence on the issue, asking whether his government supported Mahajan's views. "If the CM is defending such remarks, it reflects poorly on the entire administration," Pawar added.
Fadnavis Defends Mahajan
Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis came to the defence of his cabinet colleague. Addressing a press conference, Fadnavis stated that Mahajan's comments were taken out of context and that he had only highlighted historical facts. "Girish Mahajan is a seasoned politician and his remarks were not intended to hurt anyone's sentiments. The opposition is unnecessarily politicizing the issue," Fadnavis said.
The CM further accused the opposition of diverting attention from developmental issues. "Instead of focusing on Maharashtra's progress, they are indulging in petty politics," he added.
Political Reactions
The controversy erupted after Mahajan, while speaking at a public event, reportedly praised the 1984 military operation at the Golden Temple. Opposition parties, including Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the Samajwadi Party, have condemned his remarks.
Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan said, "Such statements are an insult to the Sikh community and the sacrifices made during that operation. The BJP-led government must rein in its ministers." Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut demanded Mahajan's resignation, calling his comments "unpardonable."
Meanwhile, the BJP defended Mahajan, with party spokesperson Keshav Upadhyay stating that the minister had merely stated historical facts and that the opposition was distorting his words for political gain.
Background
Operation Blue Star was a military operation ordered by Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in June 1984 to remove Sikh militants from the Golden Temple in Amritsar. The operation resulted in significant casualties and damage to the temple, leading to widespread outrage among the Sikh community. It is widely regarded as a sensitive and controversial event in Indian history.
Girish Mahajan, a senior BJP leader and minister in the Maharashtra government, has been at the centre of controversy before for his remarks on various issues. This latest incident has reignited debates over the political use of historical events.
