A day after NCP MLA Jitendra Awhad stirred controversy by stating that Lord Ram was a non-vegetarian, he expressed regret but stood by his comments, citing references from Valmiki Ramayana. Awhad faced protests from opposition parties and discontent within his own party, leading to demands for filing a police case against him.
Addressing a press conference in response to the BJP’s call for legal action, Awhad asserted, “I have made my statements based on solid proofs and documents. Those criticising me should read Ayodhya Kanda of Valmiki Ramayana where all the details would be found. I don’t speak without evidence. However, if someone is hurt over my statement, then I express regret.”
While the BJP and Shiv Sena staged protests demanding a police case against Awhad, he clarified that it was his personal opinion and not reflective of his party’s stance. Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Shirsat accused Awhad of purposely attempting to disrupt the country’s atmosphere with such statements.
Within the NCP, MLA Rohit Pawar indirectly criticized Awhad’s comments on religion, urging everyone to avoid falling into the trap of opposition politics based on unwarranted statements. Pawar emphasized the need to address critical issues like unemployment, law and order, women’s safety, agricultural pricing, and communal harmony.
Responding to Rohit Pawar’s remarks, Awhad downplayed them, stating that the first-time MLA has much to learn.
Awhad defended his stance, saying, “Ram is ours. Of us Bahujans who used to hunt to eat… Ram was never a vegetarian. He was a non-vegetarian. How can a man who lived in the jungle for 14 years remain a vegetarian?”