‘Does Uddhav endorse Prakash Ambedkar’s visit to Aurangzeb memorial?’, Maharashtra BJP chief asks

With the Sena (UBT) maintaining that its Hindutva ideology and its political stand on issues related to Aurangzeb were never compromised, the BJP has now sought answers on whether it will continue its ties with the VBA. The two parties had decided to contest the elections together.

Responding to the questions, senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anil Desai said in Mumbai, “The VBA and Shiv Sena (UBT) are two different political parties,” adding that his party is firm in its ideology.

Speaking to reporters after visiting the Aurangzeb tomb in Khuldabad, Ambedkar stated on Saturday that Mughal emperor Aurangzeb had ruled for 50 years and instead of abusing him people should be aware of history.

His visit came amid instances of arrests and clashes across Maharashtra over social media posts glorifying Aurangzeb. After offering floral tributes at the Mughal ruler’s tomb, Ambedkar told media persons, “What is wrong in visiting Aurangzeb’s tomb? He was a Mughal emperor who ruled here for 50 years. Can we wipe out history?”

“Instead of abusing Aurangzeb, we should reflect on why he ruled here. What were the reasons… We should be mindful of our past. And instead of spreading hatred let us reconcile to facts and look at it as historical past,” he added.

Ambedkar also wondered why such hue and cry was raised over some individuals posting pictures of Aurangzeb on social media. “There is a deliberate attempt to politicise these issues. Had I been in place of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, I would have ended these controversies within 24 hours,” he said.

Terming his visit a “personal decision”, Ambedkar also said it will not have any adverse impact on his party’s alliance with Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray.