Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Aug. 17: A significant controversy erupted on Friday after Hindu religious leader Ramgiri Maharaj made objectionable remarks against Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and Islam during a religious event. The remarks, which were made at Shah Panchale village in Nashik district, went viral on social media, leading to widespread outrage and legal action against the leader, reported The Times of India.
Ramgiri Maharaj, who is the mahant of Sarla Bet Dham in Shrirampur taluka of Ahmednagar district, has defended his statements, claiming they were in response to alleged atrocities against Hindus in Bangladesh. The remarks have sparked tensions, with police registering FIRs against him in two districts – Yeola in Nashik and Vaijapur in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar – based on complaints from members of the Muslim community.
The controversy escalated as Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde shared a stage with Ramgiri Maharaj during an event in Nashik the same day. The Chief Minister referred to the leader as a “saint,” and other prominent political figures, including Minister Girish Mahajan and former Ahmednagar MP Sujay Vikhe Patil, were seen showing their respect by touching his feet.
All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) leader Imtiaz Jaleel has condemned the remarks, calling them a political conspiracy aimed at creating communal discord. He has demanded strict action against Ramgiri Maharaj, accusing him of deliberately maligning the Muslim community.
The FIR filed in Vaijapur under Section 302 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) was based on a complaint by local resident Rafehasan Ali Khan, who stated that the remarks had deeply hurt the religious sentiments of Muslims and contributed to creating a rift between communities.
As tensions mounted, a group of Muslims gathered outside the City Chowk police station in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, demanding immediate action against the Hindu leader. Meanwhile, Ramgiri Maharaj has remained defiant, stating that he stands by his words and is ready to face any consequences.
This incident has further highlighted the volatile nature of communal relations in the region, raising concerns about the potential for escalating tensions. As the situation develops, many are watching to see how authorities handle the matter and whether it will lead to further unrest.
