AIMIM MP Imtiaz Jaleel has sparked political controversy with a sharp statement targeting the BJP, suggesting the country be renamed "Modisthan." His comments came in response to recent demands to rename towns in Maharashtra, leading to a heated political atmosphere.
The row began when Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Guardian Minister Sanjay Shirsat proposed renaming Khultabad as Ratnapur and Daulatabad as Devagiri. In a public speech responding to this demand, Jaleel launched a scathing attack on the central government, questioning its priorities and the increasing trend of renaming cities.
“You are constantly changing the names of villages and cities. Then why not name the entire country after Narendra Modi? Call it Modisthan,” Jaleel said, openly criticizing the BJP's approach to governance.
He added, “If development is to be achieved simply by changing names, then rename the country Modi itself. Say Modi is the country.” Jaleel cited several recent examples, including the renaming of Aurangabad to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Osmanabad to Dharashiv, as part of a trend that reflects misplaced governmental priorities.
Following his remarks, reactions poured in from all political corners. BJP supporters expressed outrage, condemning Jaleel’s comments as disrespectful and inflammatory. Conversely, many in the opposition stood behind Jaleel, using the moment to criticize what they describe as symbolic politics by the ruling party.
Commentators have interpreted Jaleel's statement as an expression of political frustration over symbolic moves being prioritized over substantive governance.
“This statement reflects deeper political discontent. While it may seem extreme, it underscores criticism against the government’s focus on renaming rather than addressing pressing public issues,” a senior political analyst noted.
As the controversy unfolds, the statement has intensified the political divide between the BJP and AIMIM, with Khultabad becoming the latest flashpoint in Maharashtra’s charged political landscape.