Fadnavis and Owaisi Clash Intensifies in Maharashtra Election Campaign

Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis and AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi exchanged sharp criticism during election rallies. Fadnavis accused Owaisi's ancestors of being 'Razakars', while Owaisi upheld his stance of 'jihad' against colonial forces. The political battle between Mahayuti alliance and MVA coalition escalates ahead of November 20 elections.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis delivered a stinging response to AIMIM Chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Monday, labeling his lineage as descendants of the 'Razakars' who, he claimed, historically tormented the people of Marathwada. Speaking at an election rally in Nagpur, Fadnavis questioned the legitimacy of Owaisi's criticisms, evoking a contentious historical context associated with the term 'Razakars'.

The term 'Razakar', rooted in Arabic, implies volunteerism but holds negative connotations in Bangladesh, linked to support for the Pakistan Army during the 1971 Liberation War. Owaisi, addressing a rally in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, countered Fadnavis's 'Vote-Jihad' and 'Dharma yuddha' comments, asserting his forebears fought against British colonialism and challenging key BJP figures to an open debate.

In the heated political backdrop, Owaisi was campaigning for candidate Imtiaz Jaleel in Aurangabad East, while Fadnavis bolstered his re-election bid in Nagpur South-West, citing his longstanding voter base and Mahayuti's superior credibility over the MVA. The state gears up for critical assembly elections on November 20, with results to be declared on November 23, amid fierce competition between strategic alliances.

(With inputs from agencies.)