MUMBAI: Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and chief of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has warned political party leaders not to make derogatory comments against any religion, stating that such behaviour will not be tolerated in Maharashtra. He also said that any such statements made by any leader targeting minorities will invite strict action from the state government. The Deputy CM's remarks come in response to the controversial statements made by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Nitesh Rane, in which he targeted the Muslim community.

In his speech, Nitesh Rane stoked controversy by urging Hindus not to conduct business or transactions with Muslims, suggesting that they check Aadhaar cards to verify their identity and encouraging Hindus to transact only with fellow Hindus. He also allegedly made provocative comments, leading police to book him on Monday on charges of hurting religious sentiments.

While addressing a rally in Alandi, Pune, Pawar said, "Someone stands and makes comments against another religion. As a political party, we do not support such comments; in fact, we oppose them. You may have differences of opinion, but you cannot make insulting statements against others' caste or religion and create tension in society." Pawar also stated that the Maharashtra government will not tolerate any insulting remarks against any religion.

Nitesh Rane is no stranger to controversy. Known for his brash remarks, he was booked for allegedly making hate speeches in the Malvani, Mankhurd, and Ghatkopar areas of Mumbai earlier this year.

The other important part of the state government, Shiv Sena, led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has also condemned Rane's statements. Shiv Sena leader and Minister of Industries, Uday Samant, said, "We have Abdul Sattar in our party, who is doing good work and carrying forward the ideals of the late Balasaheb Thackeray. Many Muslims have joined Shiv Sena and are working actively in their constituencies. No one should spread hatred among communities."