Explained: This article explains the political background, key decisions, and possible outcomes related to Explained : Former VP Hamid Ansari Sparks Controversy Calling Mahmud Ghazni an ‘Indian Plunderer’; BJP Criticises Statement and Its Impact and why it matters right now.
Ansari, who served two terms as Vice President from 2007 to 2017, stated, “In history books, those described as foreign invaders and looters include Mahmud of Ghazni. He was actually an ‘Indian plunderer.’ Politically, it is convenient to say that he destroyed this, he destroyed that, but they were all Indians.”
The BJP reacted strongly to Ansari’s comment, accusing him of promoting a “sick mentality” and glorifying foreign invaders. National spokesperson Sudhanshu Trivedi said, “Congress and its ecosystem glorify foreign invaders and celebrate anti-Hindu oppressors. It is unfortunate that a person who held the position of Vice President is making such statements. The truth is that all Mughal emperors ruled in the name of the Caliph of Baghdad. This problem stems from Mughals, Macaulay, and Marx.”
Another BJP spokesperson, Shahzad Poonawala, added, “After calling controversial figures like Sharjeel Imam and Umar Khalid ‘youth icons,’ now the Congress ecosystem and Hamid Ansari are glorifying the Ghaznavid ruler who destroyed and desecrated the Somnath temple. This attitude undermines India’s history and the sentiment of Hindus.”
Historians note that Mahmud of Ghazni (998–1030 CE) carried out 17 invasions into India between 1000 and 1026 CE, plundering wealth and destroying temples, including the prominent Somnath temple in Gujarat. He did not establish permanent rule in India, but his repeated invasions have left a lasting mark on Indian history.
Ansari’s remarks add to a series of controversial statements made by him over the years. These include comments on minority insecurities during a 2016 Iran visit, opposition to linking citizenship with religion during the 2019 CAA protests, and criticism of India’s Kashmir policy post-Article 370 revocation. Each statement drew political backlash, especially from the BJP, citing concerns over national interest and communal polarization.
The current controversy underscores the ongoing debate in India over historical interpretation, political ideology, and how figures from the past are remembered. BJP leaders have demanded clarification from the Congress, questioning whether the party endorses Ansari’s view.