Maharashtra Speaker warns MLA for objectionable comments on Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

Mumbai: Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar on Monday warned NCP (SP) MLA Jitendra Awhad for making objectionable comments against Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj during the debate on the Freedom of Religion Bill 2026. Narwekar warned Awhad that he would be suspended if he made objectionable comments against Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj or any other national figures in the Assembly again.Narwekar directed Awhad to take back his comments and tender an apology in the House. He also directed that his comments be expunged from the records. The Assembly was adjourned for 10 minutes after the ruling party MLAs objected to Awhad's comments and created a ruckus.BJP minister Nitesh Rane demanded that Awhad must be suspended immediately and said that his token apology was not enough for insulting the deity of the state. Awhad then issued an apology, expressed regret for hurting sentiments, and said he took back his words.