Oxford University Press offers a public apology !

James Laine book controversy over objectionable content about Rajmata Jijau

Mumbai – Over two decades after the controversy erupted, Oxford University Press, the publisher of James Laine’s book ‘Shivaji – Hindu King in Islamic India’, has issued a public apology for publishing objectionable content about Rajmata Jijau. The apology has been addressed to MP Chhatrapati Udayanraje Bhosale and the people of Maharashtra. Oxford University Press is operated by the University of Oxford. The book was originally published in 2003.

🚨 Apology After 22 Years? That’s Not Justice! 🚨

Outrage erupted after objectionable content about Rajmata Jijau was published in a book by James Laine.

Now Oxford University Press offers a public apology.

But what is an apology worth after 22 years?

🔹 Will Oxford clarify… pic.twitter.com/Q3duQ29koI

— Sanatan Prabhat (@SanatanPrabhat) January 6, 2026

Oxford University Press stated that:

1. Certain objectionable statements were published on pages 31, 33, 34 and 93 of the book. These statements were published without proper verification. We deeply regret this mistake.

2. We apologise to MP Chhatrapati Udayanraje Bhosale and to the public for the distress caused.

3. We express regret that these statements hurt the sentiments of Shiv devotees.

Editorial Perspectives

• What is the use of merely apologising ? Oxford University Press must also clarify what action it will take against James Laine, who wrote objectionable content about Rajmata Jijau. Shiv followers across Maharashtra are awaiting this answer !
• What has Oxford achieved by apologising after 22 years ?