Opposition Parties Decry Padma Bhushan Award to Former Maharashtra Governor Koshyari
The central government's decision to confer the Padma Bhushan, one of India's highest civilian honors, on former Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari has ignited a fierce backlash from opposition parties. They have accused the Centre of rubbing salt into the wounds of the Marathi manoos by honoring a figure they claim repeatedly insulted Marathi icons and undermined democratic values during his governorship.
Sharp Criticism from Political Leaders
Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Sanjay Raut led the charge, stating that the award represents "the murder of democracy and the Constitution." He questioned the basis for the honor, asking, "Can the central government tell us what great work Koshyari did to warrant the honour? He was at the forefront of bringing down the opposition government and installing the BJP government in an illegal manner." Raut emphasized that from national icons like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj to social reformers like Mahatma Phule, Koshyari had disparaged them all, making the award a deep insult to Marathi pride.
Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan echoed these sentiments, expressing disbelief at the decision. "It is difficult to believe why Koshyari would be honoured. What has been done to merit the honour? It seems like he has been honoured for manufacturing a BJP government in Maharashtra," Chavan remarked, highlighting the political undertones of the controversy.
Controversial Statements and Backtracking
The opposition's outrage stems from a series of contentious remarks made by Koshyari during his tenure. In July 2022, he sparked protests by suggesting that if Gujaratis and Rajasthanis were removed from Mumbai, no money would be left. Although he later retracted, saying his comments were misinterpreted, the damage was done. Activist Manav Kamble pointed to an even more shocking instance where Koshyari questioned the legacy of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj without Samarth Ramdas, a statement that Kamble warned "could have fuelled riots."
Koshyari further stirred controversy by referring to Shivaji as "an icon of olden days" and advising students to seek modern icons instead. Additionally, his comments on the marriage of Mahatma Phule and Savitribai Phule, where he speculated on their thoughts as child brides, were condemned as "ridiculous" by Raut, who questioned how a governor could make such statements without facing reprimand.
Allegations of Constitutional Violations
Aam Aadmi Party spokesperson Mukund Kirdat accused Koshyari of acting more as a BJP party leader than a constitutional governor. "He even administered an oath of office in the early morning hours to Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar which sent shock waves in Maharashtra and even in the country. It was done so blatantly," Kirdat stated. He also noted that Koshyari sat on a list of Legislative Council appointments for over a year, alleging a violation of constitutional norms.
Kamble added that the BJP, lacking its own heroes, was creating them from figures who insulted the "bahujan samaj," with Koshyari's honor being a prime example of this "high-handed attitude." The opposition collectively argues that by awarding Koshyari, the government has not only insulted Maharashtrians but also devalued the prestige of the Padma honors themselves.
Broader Implications and Reactions
The controversy underscores deep-seated political tensions in Maharashtra, where regional pride and identity are potent issues. Opposition leaders have framed the award as a deliberate provocation, exacerbating wounds from Koshyari's tenure. They contend that his actions, from controversial statements to alleged partisan conduct, make him unworthy of a civilian honor meant to recognize distinguished service to the nation.
As the debate rages on, it highlights the ongoing clash between the Centre and opposition forces in India, with cultural and historical symbols becoming battlegrounds in political discourse. The Padma Bhushan to Koshyari, in this view, is seen not just as a recognition but as a political statement that has reignited old grievances and sparked fresh outrage across Maharashtra.
