Rashidi's statements have been met with swift backlash. Political figures across party lines have denounced his remarks, emphasizing Shivaji Maharaj's role as a unifying figure in Indian history. Community leaders have also expressed dismay, highlighting the potential of such comments to disrupt communal harmony.
This incident adds to a series of controversies involving Maulana Sajid Rashidi. Previously, he faced criticism for objecting to Muslim students chanting "Bharat Mata ki Jai" during school events. In a video message, Rashidi urged the government to take action against teachers encouraging such slogans and advised Muslim parents to prepare their children to resist participation in activities that conflict with their faith. These remarks were widely criticized by journalists and social media users, who questioned Rashidi's stance on nationalistic expressions.
Rashidi has been involved in other contentious situations. In August 2024, he threatened nationwide protests if the Waqf Act was amended, accusing the government of targeting the Muslim community. In February 2023, he claimed that Mahmud Ghazni attacked the Somnath Temple to stop alleged illegal activities, a statement that led to legal action and subsequent apology from Rashidi. Additionally, in November 2022, he warned of unrest following the Uttarakhand government's decision to modernize madrasas, asserting that private madrasas should remain unaffected by government interventions.