Mumbai: A major political controversy has erupted after BJP’s newly appointed Mumbai chief, Ameet Satam, declared that the upcoming civic elections were about the “safety” of the city and that “a Khan” should not become the mayor of Mumbai. His statement was seen as a direct reference to the Muslim community, reported the India Today.
The remarks were made during the BJP’s Vijay Sankalp Melava, a gathering attended by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Union Minister Piyush Goyal.
Satam’s statement has triggered sharp criticism from opposition parties and community leaders, who accused the BJP of spreading communal rhetoric ahead of the municipal polls. Critics argue that such comments undermine the secular fabric of Mumbai, a city known for its diversity.
The BJP leadership has not yet issued an official clarification regarding Satam’s comments, though party insiders say the speech was intended to galvanize the cadre for the high-stakes civic body elections.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections are expected to be fiercely contested, with the BJP seeking to expand its influence after years of Shiv Sena dominance. Satam’s controversial remarks are likely to further polarize the campaign.
