'If Anyone Threatens Our Muslim Brothers...': Ajit Pawar's Warning At Iftar Party Amid Aurangzeb Row

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar warned against targeting Muslims, emphasising unity and condemning divisive forces.

Maharashtra Deputy CM and NCP supremo Ajit Pawar hosted an iftar party in Mumbai on Friday.

Source : X/@AjitPawarSpeaks

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has given out a stern warning to anyone 'who shows an eye to our Muslim brothers and sisters." 

The Nationalist Congress Party supremo was speaking during an iftar party hosted by him in Mumbai on Friday saying that no one should fall into the trap of divisive forces. 

"...India is a symbol of unity in diversity... We should not fall into the trap of any divisive forces," Pawar said. 

"We have just celebrated Holi, Gudi Padwa and Eid is coming - all these festivals teach us to live together. We should all celebrate it together because unity is our real strength," he said. 

#WATCH | Mumbai | Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, at an Iftar party hosted by him, says, "...India is a symbol of unity in diversity... We should not fall into the trap of any divisive forces. We have just celebrated Holi, Gudi Padwa and Eid are coming - all these festivals… pic.twitter.com/5s7hMhdGmb

— ANI (@ANI) March 22, 2025

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'Your Brother Is With You' 

Speaking further, Pawar assured that he was there for the Muslims warning that anyone who tries to create a fight between communities will not be forgiven. 

"I want to assure you that your brother Ajit Pawar is with you," said the Deputy CM. 

"Anyone who shows an eye to our Muslim brothers and sisters, if anyone tries to create a fight between two groups and takes law and order in his hands, whoever he is - he will not be spared, he will not be forgiven...," he added. 

Pawar's remarks come amid the ongoing Aurangzeb row in the state that fueled a violent episode in Nagpur. The city saw large-scale stone pelting and arson in several parts over rumours that a ‘chadar' with holy inscriptions was burnt during protests led by the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP), seeking the removal of Aurangzeb’s tomb in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district.

Pawar Slams Nitesh Rane 

Earlier this month, Pawar had slammed Bharatiya Janata Party minister Nitesh Rane after he voiced support for the Malhar certification as an alternative to Halal mutton for Hindus, stating that Halal food is part of Islam, not Hinduism.

Responding to the remark, the NCP chief reflected on the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and stressed that Shivaji's vision of Hindavi Swarajya was inclusive, bringing together people from all communities.

He also noted patriotism among Muslims of Maharashtra noting their historical contributions alongside Hindu leaders in the state's fight for independence and unity.

"There is a large Muslim community in our country and Maharashtra who loves their country. If we read history, we will see the books written by great people," Pawar said. 

"They have done research and gathered information. Among the people who were with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, there were also Muslims. Who was handling his ammunition? Many examples can be given," he added.