Uddhav Thackeray Attacks BJP and Eknath Shinde During Yavatmal Visit

On Saturday, June 27, 2026, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray launched a multi-pronged attack against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde during a visit to Yavatmal. Speaking to party workers and addressing a press conference, Thackeray accused the ruling party of betraying Hindus and revived bribery allegations related to the 2022 party split.

During his address in Yavatmal, Thackeray criticized the BJP over an alleged donation case. He accused the party of betraying Hindus through the alleged embezzlement of donations collected for the Ram Temple in Ayodhya. The allegation marks a significant escalation in the political rhetoric between the opposition and the ruling coalition.

Thackeray also targeted Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde by reviving his '50 khokha' bribery allegation. This charge is connected to the 2022 split of the Shiv Sena, which resulted in Shinde rising to power alongside the BJP.

Addressing the internal challenges within his own party, Thackeray spoke about the recent defections from the Shiv Sena (UBT). He apologized to his supporters for backing leaders who later decided to switch sides. Thackeray acknowledged the impact of these defections on the organization.

Despite these setbacks, Thackeray sought to rally his remaining loyalists. He asserted that 'true Shivsainiks' continue to stand with him and support his leadership. The event in Yavatmal was aimed at consolidating his support base and boosting the morale of party workers.

The verbal attacks and the apology to supporters have escalated the political rivalry in Maharashtra ahead of the upcoming elections. Thackeray's visit to Yavatmal allowed him to directly engage with local party workers and address the ongoing political shifts in the state.