Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Wednesday sharply criticized Samajwadi Party MLA Abu Azmi over his controversial remarks about Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Speaking in the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly, CM Yogi called for Azmi’s expulsion from the party and suggested sending him to Uttar Pradesh for “treatment.”
“Samajwadi Party, remove that person (Abu Azmi) from your party and send him to UP, we will handle his treatment,” CM Yogi stated, emphasizing the need to address what he described as Azmi’s misguided views.
Yogi further criticized the Samajwadi Party for praising Aurangzeb, who he claimed destroyed temples, while simultaneously criticizing the Maha Kumbh, a significant religious event. “The person who feels ashamed about the heritage of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and praises someone like Aurangzeb—who destroyed temples—does not deserve to stay in our country,” Yogi said. “Samajwadi Party should answer why they cannot control their MLA and why they haven’t condemned his statement.”
The Chief Minister also praised the successful organization of the Maha Kumbh in Prayagraj, calling it a remarkable event that attracted attention from across the world. He noted that the event was acknowledged by international media and UNESCO, emphasizing its cultural significance.
Meanwhile, Abu Azmi, embroiled in controversy over his comments on Aurangzeb, has been suspended from the Maharashtra Assembly for the duration of the ongoing budget session. The suspension followed objections raised by Parliament Minister Chandrakant Patil, who stated that Azmi’s remarks had tarnished the dignity of the House.
Azmi had claimed that Aurangzeb was not a “cruel administrator” and had even “built many temples,” later clarifying that his comments were based on historical accounts. However, he also expressed willingness to retract his statement if it had caused offense.
The controversy has sparked political debates, with Azmi accusing others of politicizing the issue, particularly in light of the Maharashtra Assembly’s decision to suspend him.
