Samajwadi Party (SP) MLA Abu Azmi was suspended for the entire Budget session of the Maharashtra Assembly following controversy over his remarks praising Mughal emperor Aurangzeb. Azmi called the suspension "injustice" and criticized the government`s double standards. In response, SP president Akhilesh Yadav condemned the suspension, arguing that punishing individuals based on their ideology undermines freedom of expression. He defended his party’s representatives, calling the suspension a childish attempt to silence them. The controversy escalated when Azmi’s comments triggered an uproar in the Maharashtra Assembly. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde called for his suspension, leading to a heated debate. In the face of growing pressure, Azmi withdrew his controversial statement, clarifying that his words had been twisted. The suspension, which lasts until the session concludes on March 26, has sparked reactions from CM Yogi, BJP leaders Shahnawaz Hussain, Ram Kadam, and Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC.