Mumbai: A fresh political confrontation has erupted in Maharashtra after Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis responded sharply to criticism from Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray over the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh’s recent outreach programme marking 100 years of public engagement.
Speaking to the media, Fadnavis dismissed the criticism, saying, “Those who were not invited to the programme are now criticising it out of disappointment.” He defended the event, stating that it was organised to promote transparency and dialogue.
Fadnavis said, “People from different sections of society were invited to interact freely, ask questions and understand the organisation in depth.” He added that the programme was not symbolic but substantive, explaining, “Participants were guided for two full days, and every single question was answered.”
Taking a dig at critics, the Deputy CM questioned the intent behind the backlash, saying, “Why should we give importance to long-running anti-Sangh propaganda?” He maintained that the outreach was aimed at clearing misconceptions rather than creating controversy.
The remarks came in response to strong objections raised by Raj Thackeray following comments attributed to RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat during a speech in Mumbai on February 8. Reports suggested that linguistic movements were referred to as a “disease,” triggering widespread debate.
Reacting on social media platform X, Thackeray strongly defended regional identity, stating, “Linguistic and regional pride is the fundamental right of every citizen.” He questioned the understanding of India’s political history, saying, “Does anyone remember how states in this country were formed if language-based identity is now being mocked?”
Expanding his argument, Thackeray said, “If linguistic pride is a disease, then it exists not only in Maharashtra but also in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, West Bengal and Gujarat.”
He further blamed rising tensions on social behaviour, alleging, “Problems arise when migrants disrespect local culture and traditions while trying to create political vote banks.”
In a pointed attack on the RSS, Thackeray questioned its past silence, saying, “Why was this message of harmony missing during earlier regional tensions in other states?”
The exchange has once again exposed deep ideological differences over national unity versus regional identity, a debate that has repeatedly surfaced in Maharashtra’s politics. With the state’s political climate already competitive, leaders across parties are expected to weigh in on the controversy in the coming days.
