Mumbai witnessed a sharp political exchange on January 14, 2026, as Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis launched a strong criticism against Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray. In an exclusive interview with Indo-Asian News Service (IANS), Fadnavis accused Thackeray of engaging in minority appeasement politics and deviating from the Hindutva principles championed by his late father, Balasaheb Thackeray. The remarks came amid the heated campaign for the upcoming civic polls across 29 municipal corporations in the state, including the crucial Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections scheduled for January 15.

Fadnavis specifically alleged that pro-Pakistan slogans were raised and flags were waved at events linked to Thackeray's camp. He further claimed that individuals accused in past Mumbai bomb blast cases had participated in rallies associated with Thackeray and sought votes. The Chief Minister highlighted additional instances of alleged appeasement, such as party members visiting mosques and promising the reinstallation of loudspeakers if Thackeray returned to power, questioning the implications of such actions for national integrity and public signals.

The attack forms part of a broader narrative where Fadnavis contrasted the BJP's commitment to Hindutva "in its true spirit," describing it as inclusive of anyone who respects Indian culture and traditions, regardless of background. He asserted that his party rejects what he termed hollow or opportunistic ideology, emphasizing that appeasement politics, as allegedly practiced by Thackeray, would not be tolerated in Maharashtra. This comes against the backdrop of ongoing political rivalries, with the Mahayuti alliance (BJP and allies) positioning itself as the defender of core Hindutva values ahead of the polls.

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Fadnavis also took a jibe at Thackeray's focus on governance, renewing an earlier challenge by offering a reward to anyone who could produce a speech by the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader centered solely on development issues. He recalled previously increasing the reward amount without any response, underscoring his view that Thackeray's political discourse has shifted away from substantive matters toward appeasement for electoral gains. He stated that Uddhav Thackeray was now pursuing the very kind of politics that Balasaheb Thackeray had opposed throughout his life.

The statements reflect the intense polarization in Maharashtra's political landscape as civic elections approach, with parties trading accusations over ideology, nationalism, and governance priorities. While no immediate response from the Thackeray camp was detailed in the reports, the exchange highlights the high stakes involved, particularly in Mumbai, where historical ties to Hindutva and regional identity continue to shape electoral strategies.

Also Read: BMC Poll is About Thackerays’ Political Survival, Not Marathi Identity: Fadnavis