Eknath Shinde was speaking at the Shiv Sena's first meeting of minorities in the state in Shanmukhananda Hall in Mumbai

"Those Muslims who respect this state and country are ours. However, it was the Congress that always ensured a rift between the two communities (Hindus and Muslims)," Shinde said

"Keeping both the communities away from each other, creating a rift and indulging in votebank politics are something the Congress has done for years," Shinde alleged

"During communal tensions in Mumbai and Thane, Shiv Sena workers have not only protected temples but also mosques," Shinde said

If we were against the minority community, we would not have made Abdul Sattar (agriculture) minister. We respect all communities," Shinde added