Ambadas Danve's Controversial Statement: "Cutting Off Prashant Koratkar’s Tongue Is a Fitting Punishment"
Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader and Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, Ambadas Danve, has sparked controversy with a sensational remark in response to Prashant Koratkar’s alleged derogatory comments about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.
“Prashant Koratkar’s tongue should be cut off—this would be a fitting punishment for him,” said Danve during a media interaction, expressing outrage over Koratkar’s statements, which have triggered widespread anger across Maharashtra.
Background of the Controversy
The controversy stems from a phone conversation in which Prashant Koratkar, now under legal scrutiny, allegedly made offensive and inflammatory remarks about the revered Maratha warrior king, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. The audio clip circulated on social media and provoked strong backlash from Shivaji followers, social organizations, and the general public.
Protests have erupted across the state, with many demanding strict legal action against Koratkar for hurting public sentiments and disrespecting a historical icon.
Legal Proceedings and Public Outrage
Koratkar has been granted conditional bail by the court but remains in Kalamba Jail due to a government holiday, delaying his release. He is expected to be freed by tomorrow afternoon. Meanwhile, Danve criticized the legal system, calling the bail “too lenient.”
“Legal punishment alone is not enough for those who insult great men. An exemplary punishment should be imposed. Cutting off Koratkar’s tongue is the appropriate penalty,” Danve reiterated.
His comments have stirred further debate, with some supporting the call for stricter laws to protect the dignity of national icons, while others have condemned Danve’s statement as inflammatory and potentially inciting violence.
Calls for Stricter Legislation
The incident has reignited discussions around the need for tougher legislation to penalize individuals who make deliberately provocative statements about historical figures. Many believe that such controversies are being used to divert public attention from pressing social issues, and there is growing demand for legal reforms to safeguard social harmony and uphold respect for national heroes.
While freedom of expression remains a constitutional right, the limits of speech—especially when it offends deeply held cultural sentiments—continue to be hotly debated in Maharashtra’s political and social circles.