Maharashtra Minority Commission chief slams Nitesh Rane over hate speech remarks

Maharashtra State Minority Commission Chairman on April 27, 2025, criticised BJP Minister Nitesh Rane, accusing him of repeatedly delivering hate speeches that seek to divide society.
| Photo Credit: PTI

Maharashtra State Minority Commission Chairman Pyare Khan on Saturday (April 27, 2025) criticised BJP Minister Nitesh Rane, accusing him of repeatedly delivering hate speeches that seek to divide society.

Mr. Khan’s comments came after Mr. Rane, while addressing a gathering in Ratnagiri, urged Hindus to inquire about the religion of shopkeepers before making purchases. Mr. Rane had said, “They asked our religion before killing us. Therefore, Hindus should also inquire about their religion before shopping. Hindu organisations should raise such a demand.”

Mr. Rane further added, “Whenever you go shopping, ask about their religion. If they say they are Hindus, then tell them to recite the Hanuman Chalisa. If they don’t know how to recite it, don’t buy anything from them.”

Mr. Khan said, “He [Nitesh Rane] keeps giving such hate speeches. In my opinion, his statements should not be taken seriously. The country’s Prime Minister is working to build the nation, but Nitesh Rane is working to tear it apart.”

Mr. Khan also stressed on the support of the Muslim community for the country, particularly in light of recent terrorist attacks. “Adil sacrificed his life to save tourists. Kashmiri Muslims are standing with the country. For the first time, Muslims across India are furious with Pakistan. Every mosque and madrasa is condemning Pakistan,” he noted.

Mr. Rane’s controversial statements come against the backdrop of the April 22 terror attack at Baisaran meadow in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where terrorists killed 25 Indian nationals and one Nepali citizen, leaving several others injured.