Overview

• Maharashtra BJP minister Nitesh Rane referred to Kerala as 'mini Pakistan,' claiming terrorists voted for Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.
• Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan called the remarks 'deeply malicious' and accused the Sangh Parivar of orchestrating hate campaigns against Kerala.
• Rane later clarified his statement, asserting Kerala is part of India but raising concerns over religious conversions and 'love jihad' in the state.
• Opposition parties, including Congress and the Left Democratic Front, demanded Rane's resignation, citing a violation of constitutional values and his oath of office.
• The controversy has intensified political tensions, with BJP leaders both defending and criticizing Rane's remarks, while Kerala leaders emphasize the state's secular and harmonious identity.