Controversy Unfurls Over Shivaji Maharaj Book Tussle

A fresh controversy has emerged involving Sanjay Gaikwad, an MLA from the Shiv Sena faction led by Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. Gaikwad has been accused of threatening a Kolhapur-based publisher for a book said to disrespect Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

The book in question, 'Shivaji Kon Hota,' by the late CPI leader Govind Pansare, was published in 1988 and portrays Shivaji as a secular, people's king. The publisher, Prashant Ambi, alleges that Gaikwad made threats late at night, with an audio clip of the incident going viral.

Gaikwad, known for previous controversies, has denied the allegations, claiming the audio was edited. Meanwhile, political figures are demanding an inquiry, as concerns rise over the MLA's conduct and the security of the publisher.