Jagga Reddy accuses BJP of using Shivaji Maharaj for political advantage

Sangareddy: Telangana PCC working president T Jagga Reddy said on Sunday that Shivaji Maharaj is not a religious leader; he is a leader of the people.

He maintained that the history of great personalities should not be used for political gains.

Reddy further stated that ‘It is not correct to confine Shivaji Maharaj to one religion; the BJP is distorting history and using Shivaji for political advantage; Muslims served as senior officials under Shivaji; he had nothing to do with caste or religion; the welfare of his people and the security of his kingdom were his priorities”.

Speaking after the groundbreaking ceremony for the installation of Shivaji’s statue on the Sangareddy Bypass Road, the senior Congress leader described Shivaji as a great warrior and advised youth to study his life.

Reddy said that it is not right to confine Shivaji to a single religion. He said Shivaji Maharaj was a great leader who prioritized public welfare and the security of his kingdom. Reddy alleged that the BJP is distorting Shivaji’s history and promoting it for political gain.

He stated that during Shivaji Maharaj’s rule, Muslims also served alongside Hindus, and that Muslim officials like Daulat Khan and Mulla Haider held high positions. He emphasised that Shivaji Maharaj worked for the welfare of all people in his kingdom, beyond caste and religion. He added that Shivaji Maharaj governed with commitment to public welfare.

As a king, he fought wars with Muslim rulers, but never attacked Muslim civilians. He said it is wrong to give religious interpretations to wars that took place between kingdoms.

Reddy urged youth to study and understand his bravery, administrative skill, and dedication to his people. ‘It is inappropriate to distort the history of great personalities for selfish political interests’, Reddy asserted.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

The Hans India