(December 31, 2024) — Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has strongly condemned the recent controversial statement made by Maharashtra Minister Nitish Rane, who referred to certain areas in India as “mini-Pakistan.” The remark, made in a public address, has drawn sharp criticism from political leaders across the country, including Vijayan, who described it as “deeply provocative and deplorable.”
Vijayan took to social media to express his disapproval, stating that such remarks were not only irresponsible but also dangerous, as they fuel unnecessary communal tensions. He further emphasized that the statement undermines the unity and diversity of India, a nation that prides itself on its pluralistic society. “Statements like these only divide communities and are an affront to our country’s secular fabric,” Vijayan wrote in his tweet.
The controversy erupted when Nitish Rane, while addressing a rally, made the “mini-Pakistan” comment in reference to certain regions in Maharashtra with significant Muslim populations. He suggested that these areas were becoming increasingly similar to Pakistan, a remark that sparked outrage across various political and social circles.
Opposition leaders, including several from the Congress and Left parties, have joined Vijayan in condemning Rane’s statement. “Such divisive language has no place in a democracy. Leaders must exercise caution in their words,” said a Congress spokesperson. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) also called for a public apology from Rane, asserting that such rhetoric only promotes hate and division.
In response to the backlash, Nitish Rane defended his comments, claiming that he was referring to the changing socio-political dynamics in certain areas and not to any specific community. However, the damage had already been done, with many accusing him of using inflammatory language for political gain. The incident highlights the growing concerns about communal polarization in political discourse across the country.
