Shivaji remarks row: Descendants warn of Maharashtra shutdown unless Governor Koshyari removed from post

BJP MP Udayanraje Bhosale meets PM Modi; Sambhaji Chhatrapati warns of Statewide shutdown

Expressing regret for not apologizing over the controversial statements made by Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari against Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, the descendants of the 17th century Maratha King have asked strict action and urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to remove him from the post.

While BJP MP Udayanraje Bhosale met Mr. Modi on Friday on the issue, Sambhaji Chhatrapati warned of Maharashtra bandh unless Mr. Koshyari was removed from his post soon.

Speaking in Delhi after his meeting with the PM, Mr. Bhosale said that the Maharashtra Governor’s statements called for a swift solution.

While unwilling to criticize his party, the BJP, he said: “Action will be taken as per the procedure. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is aware of the gravity of the matter. All the MPs from Maharashtra who met Mr. Modi today are unanimous about action against the Governor,” he said.

At the same time, Mr. Bhosale defended the BJP, remarking: “The BJP did not tell the Governor to make such statements. The party cannot be held responsible for his remarks. It is regrettable that the governor has not apologized till now.”

The royal from Satara informed that after the Governor’s insulting’s remarks, a letter was written to the President, the Prime Minister and the Home Minister on November 23.

“The President’s secretary has sent a letter to the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on this matter. A letter has also been sent to the PM’s office. There is a feeling that there should be no quarrels and rifts over this issue as Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is an identity of Maharashtra as well as that of the country’s,” said Mr. Bhosale.