Political Clash in Pune After Shivaji–Tipu Comparison; 9 Injured in Stone Pelting

Pune | New Delhi

At least nine people, including police personnel and journalists, were injured on Sunday after clashes broke out between workers of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress in Pune, following controversial remarks by Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal comparing Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with Tipu Sultan.

The violence erupted near the Congress Bhavan, where BJP workers had gathered to protest Sapkal’s comments. What began as sloganeering soon escalated into stone pelting from both sides, forcing police to intervene and deploy heavy security to prevent further escalation.

Joint Commissioner of Police Ranjan Kumar Sharma confirmed that three Congress workers, two BJP workers, two police personnel, and two journalists sustained injuries. “Workers from both parties climbed onto walls and engaged in stone pelting. Cases are being registered against members of both sides,” Sharma said.

What Sparked the Row

The confrontation followed Sapkal’s remarks in which he praised the bravery of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and stated that Tipu Sultan, inspired by similar ideals of resistance, fought against British rule. Sapkal said that in terms of valour and opposition to colonial forces, Tipu Sultan should be viewed on par with Shivaji Maharaj.

The comments triggered strong backlash from BJP leaders and Hindu groups, who accused the Congress of equating a revered Maratha king with a controversial historical figure, calling the comparison unacceptable.

Political Fallout Intensifies

BJP Pune city unit president Dheeraj Ghate filed a complaint against Sapkal at Parvati police station, alleging that the remarks hurt Hindu sentiments. Police confirmed that an FIR has been registered.

Meanwhile, Pune city Congress chief Arvind Shinde submitted a written complaint against BJP leaders, including the city mayor, accusing them of provoking violence. Maharashtra Congress vice-president Mohan Joshi alleged that BJP workers initiated the stone pelting, claiming that Congress supporters were injured during the protest.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Krishikesh Rawale said police acted swiftly to bring the situation under control and prevent further violence.

Wider Political Context

The controversy comes amid heightened political sensitivity around historical narratives in Maharashtra. A day earlier, a separate dispute had erupted in Malegaon over the display of Tipu Sultan’s portrait in a municipal office, drawing protests from Shiv Sena corporators and Hindu organisations.

Adding to the political exchange, Congress leader Sachin Sawant accused the BJP of “double standards,” alleging that BJP leaders had earlier supported references to Tipu Sultan in civic resolutions and public spaces. He claimed the BJP was now using the issue to polarise voters ahead of upcoming political battles.

Situation Under Control, Tensions Remain

While the immediate situation in Pune has been brought under control, the incident underscores rising political tensions and the volatility surrounding historical figures in contemporary politics. Authorities have increased police presence in sensitive areas as investigations continue.