Maharashtra BJP president Ravindra Chavan has issued an apology following backlash over his statement suggesting that memories of former Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh would be "wiped out" from Latur. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, Chavan clarified that his remarks were not intended as a personal criticism of the late Congress leader and emphasised that local body elections should focus on civic development rather than legacy politics.

The controversy erupted during a party workers' meeting in Latur on Monday, ahead of the January 15 civic polls, where Chavan declared that the enthusiasm of BJP supporters would ensure the erasure of Deshmukh's memories from the city. Vilasrao Deshmukh, a two-time chief minister and native of Latur, is widely credited with significant developmental contributions to the region, making the comments particularly sensitive.

The remarks drew immediate condemnation from the Congress party, which accused the BJP of arrogance and attempting to undermine Deshmukh's enduring contributions to Maharashtra. Amit Deshmukh, the late leader's son and a Congress legislator, described the statements as deeply distressing, asserting that his father's bond with Latur residents remains indelible and cannot be diminished by external rhetoric.

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Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh, another son of the former chief minister, responded emotionally, stating that names of leaders who lived for the people are eternally etched in public hearts, beyond any attempt at erasure. The Congress further warned that Latur's voters would deliver a strong rebuttal to such perceived insults during the upcoming elections.

Chavan maintained that the Congress was inappropriately seeking votes in Vilasrao Deshmukh's name, while affirming respect for the late leader's stature. He extended a personal apology to Amit Deshmukh, whom he described as a friend, if sentiments were hurt, but avoided apologising directly to Latur's residents when pressed, redirecting attention to developmental priorities.

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