Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA Abu Asim Azmi. File photo
| Photo Credit: The Hindu
Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA Abu Asim Azmi appeared before the Marine Drive police station on Wednesday (March 12, 2025) as part of an ongoing investigation into his controversial remarks about Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. His appearance follows a directive from the Mumbai Sessions Court, which ordered him to report to the police station for three consecutive days.
Speaking to the press before heading to the station, Mr. Azmi said, “I am complying with the court’s directive and will be signing at the police station for three days. There is no need to record a statement, as there is no case against me. An FIR was registered, but I secured anticipatory bail”.
He also criticised the allegations against him, stating, “I am being accused without reason. They suspended me for the entire session. People are calling me a terrorist, but what terror have I spread? This is baseless. Regardless of the government’s actions, I will continue my work”.
The controversy erupted after Mr. Azmi made remarks about Aurangzeb within the premises of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly last week. His statements sparked widespread criticism across party lines, leading the Mumbai Police to register a case under Sections 299, 302, 356(1), and 356(2) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC).
Anticipatory bail
On Tuesday, the Mumbai Sessions Court granted Azmi anticipatory bail on a solvent surety bond of ₹20,000, instructing him not to tamper with evidence. He was directed to appear at the Marine Drive police station on March 12, 13, and 15, between 11 am and 1 pm.
The case has sparked significant political debate, with political leaders highlighting the sensitivity of historical figures like Aurangzeb in contemporary politics. While Mr. Azmi’s legal team has dismissed the charges as unfounded, police officials continue their probe into the matter.
Published – March 13, 2025 09:58 am IST