Nagpur: Pyare Khan, Chairman of the Maharashtra State Minority Commission, has sharply criticized BJP minister Nitesh Rane over his recent controversial remarks on Eid al-Adha, warning that such statements not only hurt communal harmony but could also legally implicate him if unrest follows, reported the Indian Express.
Rane, known for his provocative rhetoric, questioned the tradition of animal sacrifice during Eid al-Adha and called for a “virtual Eid,” asserting that “India does not run on Shariah law.” These comments sparked outrage, with many accusing him of deliberately targeting Muslims and fostering communal tensions.
Responding to the remarks, Pyare Khan said, “Nitesh Rane keeps making the same hurtful comments repeatedly. He drags Pakistan into discussions to taunt Indian Muslims. But the reality is that those who chose to stay in India believed in this country. They are honest citizens who are respected across communities. Perhaps that very fact unsettles him.”
Speaking to media in Nagpur, Khan emphasized that such divisive comments reflect poorly not only on Rane but also on the BJP. “These are his personal views, but they cast a shadow on the entire party. He is damaging BJP’s image with his statements,” Khan remarked.
He further warned that the Minority Commission has the authority under Section 10 to act against those who incite communal tensions. “If his words lead to unrest or violence, we won’t hesitate to issue a notice or hold him accountable,” he asserted.
When contacted, Nitesh Rane stood by his comments, saying, “I was expecting a responsible Muslim leader like him to support an eco-friendly Bakrid. That would solve many problems and end the Hindu-Muslim divide.”
The incident has once again brought into focus the fine line between freedom of speech and hate speech, especially in a diverse society like India.
