Controversial Remarks by Ruta Awhad Draws Criticism

Ruta Awhad, wife of NCP leader Jitendra Awhad, caused an uproar by comparing Osama bin Laden to former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam during a speech to children. She was criticized by political figures who accused her of glorifying terrorism. Awhad later claimed her words were misinterpreted.

Ruta Awhad, the wife of Nationalist Congress Party leader Jitendra Awhad, ignited a firestorm of controversy after drawing a parallel between terrorist Osama bin Laden and former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam during a talk in Thane on Thursday.

Awhad urged children to read Laden's biography to understand his transformation into a terrorist, suggesting societal forces played a role. ''How APJ Abdul Kalam became the president is similar to the way Osama bin Laden became a terrorist,'' she asserted.

Her comments quickly attracted political backlash, including from former MP Anand Paranjpe who demanded action against her for allegedly glorifying terrorism. Ruta Awhad defended herself, stating her remarks were taken out of context and intended to highlight the impact of societal influence on individuals.

(With inputs from agencies.)