Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of “betraying Hindus” in connection with the ongoing Ram temple donations controversy. Addressing a public rally in the Yavatmal-Washim constituency, he alleged that the BJP had played with public emotions in the name of religion and called for protests under the slogan “BJP-mukt Ram.”

The remarks come amid heightened political tension surrounding alleged irregularities in the donation management of the Ram temple in Ayodhya. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) has reportedly identified lapses in the handling of funds, with authorities arresting eight individuals involved in counting cash and valuables. Officials said around Rs 79.85 lakh was recovered during the investigation, deepening the controversy and triggering political exchanges between parties.

Thackeray, who leads the Shiv Sena (UBT), argued that the BJP’s interpretation of Hindutva differed from what he described as its “true meaning.” He said real Hindutva promotes humanity, while accusing the BJP of misusing religious sentiment and “looting temples.” His remarks were framed as a direct ideological challenge to the ruling party’s narrative on faith and politics.

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He also accused the BJP of engineering political splits to divert attention from governance issues. Referring to past divisions within the Shiv Sena, Thackeray indirectly targeted the Eknath Shinde-led faction, alleging that such moves were designed to weaken opposition parties. The split in the Shiv Sena in 2022 remains a major point of political dispute between the factions.

During the rally, Thackeray also referred to a recent defection involving dissident MP Sanjay Deshmukh, expressing regret and describing the situation as a betrayal of voter trust. Using a metaphorical reference, he said he had once supported a leader who later switched sides, apologising to his supporters for the political fallout and alleging that such defections undermined public confidence.

Escalating his attack further, Thackeray revived his “50 khokha” allegation against Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, reiterating claims that large sums were allegedly involved during the 2022 Shiv Sena split. He questioned the credibility of such political realignments and said the situation reflected deeper issues of trust and power bargaining in state politics, while urging supporters to remain committed to his faction’s ideology.

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