A major controversy has erupted in Maharashtra after Congress spokesperson Alok Sharma made offensive remarks about the Marathi community. Sharma's comment, made during a debate, has sparked widespread criticism and outrage across the state.

मराठी माणसाचा बलात्कारी असा उल्लेख करून काँग्रेस पक्षाचे प्रवक्ते आलोक शर्मा यांनी तमाम मराठी माणसांचा आणि महाराष्ट्राचा अपमान केला आहे. याच वक्तव्याचा निषेध नोंदवत शिवसेनेचे सोशल मीडिया राज्यप्रमुख आणि युवासेनेचे सरचिटणीस मा.श्री. राहुल कनाल यांनी मुंबई पोलिसांकडे केलेल्या… pic.twitter.com/PsTrE2tLTP

— Shivsena - शिवसेना (@Shivsenaofc) August 23, 2024

In a recent debate, Sharma responded to a question about the Badlapur sex abuse case by questioning whether his BJP counterpart would defend "Marathi manoos (people)" if they were involved in such crimes. He questioned, "मराठी माणसू बदलापरू मेरेप करेगा तोह उसको भी आप बचाएंगेकया" (Even if a Marathi person committed the rape in Badlapur, would you still save him?).

In response to a question about a recent sexual abuse case in Badlapur, Sharma questioned whether his BJP counterpart would defend "Marathi manoos" if they were implicated in such crimes. His comment, "Even if a Marathi person committed the rape in Badlapur, would you still save him?" has sparked widespread outrage.

The backlash has been intense, with thousands of social media posts and posters condemning Sharma's statement. Both the BJP and Shiv Sena have criticized Sharma's remarks, with Union Minister Piyush Goyal calling for an explanation from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi.

In response, Shiv Sena has filed a police complaint against Sharma, accusing him of insulting Marathi people and demanding his dismissal. The complaint has led to a formal case being registered. The Marathi-speaking community worldwide is expressing strong disapproval of Sharma's statement.

The criticism extends beyond political boundaries, reflecting broad disapproval across Maharashtra. Many believe that criminal behavior is not tied to any specific community, and Sharma's comments have been seen as a serious offense against the Marathi identity.

Maharashtra has a rich tradition of respecting women, with historical figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and social reformers such as Savitribai Phule making significant contributions to women's dignity and education. The recent comments are viewed as a direct affront to this legacy.

Historically, the Congress party has faced accusations of undermining Marathi aspirations and leadership. The party's past actions, such as opposing the formation of a united Maharashtra and marginalizing prominent Marathi leaders, have contributed to a perception of neglect towards Marathi-speaking regions.

Furthermore, the Congress has been criticized for its handling of Marathi-speaking regions during state reorganizations and its lack of representation for Marathi leaders within the party.

Despite the gravity of Sharma's remarks, prominent figures such as Uddhav Thackeray and Sanjay Raut, who are seen as inheritors of Marathi pride, have yet to comment publicly. Similarly, Congress leaders in Maharashtra, including Sharad Pawar and Supriya Sule, have remained notably silent on the issue.

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