Maharashtra Congress Chief Harshvardhan Sapkal Apologizes for Statement Comparing Tipu Sultan with Chhatrapati Shivaji

Pune, Maharashtra: The controversy surrounding a statement comparing Tipu Sultan with Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj has prompted Maharashtra Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal to issue a formal apology. Sapkal had reportedly highlighted similarities between the 18th-century ruler of Mysore and the Maratha king, sparking political uproar across the state.

Sapkal Clarifies His Intent

Harshvardhan Sapkal stated that he never intended to hurt anyone’s sentiments. He claimed that the BJP had deliberately twisted his remarks, presenting them out of context. “If my statement has hurt followers of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, I sincerely apologize. My intention was never to disrespect anyone’s sentiments,” Sapkal said.

Opposition from Hindu Organizations

The controversy initially began when Shan-e-Hind Nihal Ahmed, Deputy Mayor of Malegaon Municipal Corporation, displayed a picture of Tipu Sultan in his office. The display was opposed by Shiv Sena councillors and several Hindu organizations, who objected to placing Tipu Sultan’s image in a civic office.

Allegations of Equating Two Historical Figures

During his statement, Sapkal had referred to Shivaji Maharaj’s bravery and his vision for ‘Swarajya’ and compared it to Tipu Sultan’s resistance against the British as an example of similar spirit. Critics accused him of equating the two historical figures, which ignited the backlash.

FIR Filed in Pune

Following the uproar, an FIR was filed against Sapkal in Pune. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also criticized the Congress leader, stating that the state would not tolerate any disrespect toward Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.