Maharashtra Minister Nitish Rane Calls Kerala ‘Mini Pakistan,’ Issues Clarification After Outrage

Nitish Rane: Maharashtra minister and BJP leader Nitish Rane recently found himself at the center of a political storm after describing Kerala as a “mini Pakistan.” The comment, made while targeting Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, sparked widespread criticism from Opposition leaders.

Nitish Rane, a minister holding the Fisheries and Ports portfolio, made the remark during a public address, alleging that “terrorist votes” were responsible for the Congress duo’s electoral victories in Kerala.

Opposition Leaders Condemn Nitish Rane’s Remark

Political leaders across the spectrum were quick to denounce the statement. Congress MP Tariq Anwar called it “childish” and labeled Rane’s rhetoric as unbefitting of a public servant. Echoing the sentiment, Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe questioned Rane’s constitutional commitment.

Londhe said, “Nitish Rane has taken an oath to uphold the unity and sovereignty of India. Labeling an entire state as ‘Pakistan’ and calling its voters ‘terrorists’ raises questions about his fitness to hold ministerial office.”

Adding to the chorus of criticism, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey alleged that Rane’s remarks were rooted in frustration over Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s narrow electoral victories in Kerala.

Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi’s Kerala Connection

Rahul Gandhi had initially won from Kerala’s Wayanad constituency in the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, a decision seen as a strategic move after Congress struggled in Uttar Pradesh. However, in 2024, he chose to retain his traditional seat of Raebareli, leaving Wayanad open for a bye-election. Priyanka Gandhi Vadra subsequently contested and won the Wayanad seat, further solidifying Congress’s presence in the state.

Nitish Rane Issues a Clarification

Facing mounting backlash, Nitish Rane clarified his remarks, emphasising that he did not intend to question Kerala’s place within India. Instead, he claimed his comments were aimed at highlighting issues like “love jihad” and alleged religious conversions in the state.

“Kerala is an integral part of our country,” Rane stated. “My remarks were based on the growing threats faced by Hindus in Kerala, including targeted conversions and intimidation.”

While his clarification attempted to shift focus to broader social issues, critics argued that the original remark went too far and damaged Rane’s credibility as a minister.