Double standards: Congress hits out at BJP after Sapkal faces flak on Shivaji–Tipu Sultan remark

Congress criticizes BJP for hypocrisy over Tipu Sultan remarks, accusing them of double standards and political polarization tactics.

Maharashtra Congress leader Sachin Sawant on Sunday (February 15, 2026) accused the BJP of "double standards" and pursuing a polarisation agenda after his party's State chief Harshwardhan Sapkal faced criticism for 'equating' Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj with Tipu Sultan.

In a statement, the Congress spokesperson cited several instances to claim that BJP leaders had earlier supported or endorsed references to 18th-century Mysuru ruler Tipu Sultan in public spaces and official forums.

He referred to resolutions in civic bodies in Akola and Mumbai, as well as past instances where BJP leaders had allegedly praised or associated with the historical figure, to argue that the party's current opposition was politically motivated.

The BJP earlier admired Tipu Sultan, but now calls him bad for its polarisation agenda. "What should this hypocrisy be called? Tipu Sultan used to wear a ring bearing the name of Lord Ram," Mr. Sawant claimed.

He alleged that the BJP was now portraying Tipu Sultan negatively as part of a strategy to create religious divisions, despite what he said were earlier expressions of admiration by its leaders.

The Congress leader also accused the ruling party of engaging in "distorted religious politics" and attempting to polarise voters, while reiterating the party's criticism of the BJP's stand on the issue.