CPI MP writes to Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis demanding immediate action against Nitish Rane’s ‘controversial’ remarks
New Delhi: P Sandosh Kumar, a member of the Communist Party of India (CPI), sent a letter to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday to express his disapproval of Minister Nitish Rane’s “controversial” comments on the state of Kerala and to call for prompt action against him.
Kumar vehemently claimed that Rane’s comments “undermine the spirit of national unity and secularism” protected by the Constitution and had “deeply hurt” the feelings of millions of people.
“I write to you in my capacity as a Member of Parliament of the Communist Party of India and as a proud representative of the people of Kerala to express my strong condemnation of the recent divisive and irresponsible remarks made by Maharashtra Minister Nitish Rane,” the member of the Rajya Sabha wrote.
“His comments directed against the people of Kerala have deeply hurt the sentiments of millions, and I am compelled to register my protest against such rhetoric, which not only maligns the state of Kerala but also undermines the spirit of national unity and secularism that the Constitution of India upholds,” said the letter.
Further, the Kerala CPI MP said that Nitish Rane’s remarks, which denigrated Keralans and tarnished the state’s sociopolitical culture, amounted to nothing less than an “incitement to divisive politics.”
“These remarks expose the Bharatiya Janata Party’s consistent pattern of fuelling hatred and intolerance towards Kerala, a state known for its rich secular traditions, inclusive policies, and progressive values,” he said.
“Equality, fraternity, and respect for the integrity of all states and communities are guaranteed by the Indian Constitution, which Rane has vowed to uphold and preserve. His disparaging remarks go against the core of fundamental basic precepts. Such statements foster a poisonous climate of sectarianism and regionalism, which is detrimental to national cohesion,” the letter said.
He also called for quick action against Rane, saying that these comments may sow discord and intolerance and create a dangerous precedent.
“I implore you to remove Nitish Rane from his role as a minister. His remarks will create a dangerous precedent and only serve to further divide and incite enmity between governments and groups if they are not addressed. I have faith that you will take the required actions to preserve Kerala’s honor and the integrity of the country. Keralans, as well as everyone who upholds the principles of democracy, secularism, and solidarity, are keeping a careful eye on the situation. I’m hoping you’ll take swift action on this,” he said.
In a contentious statement earlier on Monday, Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane likened Kerala to “Mini-Pakistan” and said that Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, two Congress stalwarts, were chosen to serve in Parliament for this same purpose.
“Rahul Gandhi and his sister are elected from Kerala because it is a miniature version of Pakistan. Every terrorist casts a ballot for them. You may inquire; this is the reality. “They took terrorists with them when they became MPs,” Rane said during a gathering in the Pune district’s Purandar Taluka.
Notably, when opposition leaders criticized him for his comment, Rane stressed that Kerala was an integral part of India, claiming he was just drawing comparisons between the conditions in Kerala and Pakistan.
