Sapkal Offers Apology For Shivaji-Tipu Remark Amid Spiralling Political Storm

Nagpur: Facing mounting criticism for his remarks linking Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Tipu Sultan, Maharashtra Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal on Tuesday expressed regret, saying his statement was misinterpreted and he never intended to draw a comparison between the two historical icons. His apology just 48 hours before Shivaji Jayanti, also came with an appeal for calm and urged people not to fall prey to misinformation."I did not say anything wrong about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The question of comparison does not arise; I did not make one," Sapkal said in a post on social media, clarifying that his earlier comments were taken out of context. He described Shivaji Maharaj as "my ideal, my inspiration and my pride," and said the legendary Maratha ruler's legacy was completely "unmatched".
In a public message addressed to Shivaji devotees, Sapkal said his 70-second statement was "deliberately misinterpreted by taking 1 word out of context." He claimed the controversy was amplified to create religious tension. "What happened in Pune shows how the issue was used," he said, referring to protests that followed. "If any Shiv devotees' sentiments were hurt because of misuse of my words, I sincerely express regret. It was never my intention to hurt anyone's feelings. Let us put this matter to rest here."He maintained that his original response was in the context of a question about displaying portraits of historical personalities in govt offices to promote unity. According to Sapkal, he said the 18th-century Mysore ruler drew inspiration from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in fighting the British, and the intent of displaying such images should be to convey harmony, not division.At the same time, Sapkal intensified his criticism of BJP, accusing it of diverting attention from pressing issues, including concerns over a proposed trade deal with US and farmers' distress. "If BJP wants to cut my tongue because I expose them, then go ahead, but I will not stop," he said, referring to statements by some BJP leaders who allegedly announced a reward for anyone who would "cut" his tongue. He added such threats would not deter him.