Uddhav Thackeray Calls for BJP-Mukt Ram at Yavatmal Rally
Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray launched a sharp attack against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during a public rally in Yavatmal, Maharashtra, on Saturday, June 27, 2026. Speaking on the first day of his three-day tour, Thackeray accused the BJP of betraying Hindus and Hindutva over alleged donation thefts at the Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, and announced that his party would lead protests calling for a "BJP-mukt Ram."
During his address, Thackeray recalled the emotionally charged environment surrounding the Ram Mandir issue in the past. He noted that Hinduhridaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray had personally toured Maharashtra to ask the public for contributions toward the temple's construction. Thackeray questioned the status of those donations, asking what happened to the money given by the Shiv Sena. He alleged that money, gold, and silver are currently being stolen from the Ram Mandir, claiming that the BJP has betrayed Hindus and Hindutva.
Thackeray defined his party's stance by stating that real Hindutva teaches humanity, and he rejected what he termed the BJP's "Hindutva of looting temples." He urged the voters of Maharashtra to actively question both the defected MPs and the BJP, which he accused of wanting to finish off the political Opposition. He asked the crowd if the Maharashtra of Shahu, Phule, and Ambedkar would stand against them and ask these necessary questions.
In a further escalation of political tension, Thackeray referred to the BJP as the "Pakistan Janata Party." He slammed the national party over the government's official stance that a passport does not serve as proof of citizenship. Thackeray questioned whether holding a BJP membership was the only actual proof of citizenship, expressing concern over the party's behavior.
Earlier on Saturday, Thackeray also took a jibe at reporters when questioned about his recent interaction with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The two leaders had travelled together to Nagpur on the same flight on June 26, which had sparked intense political speculation. Thackeray laughingly told reporters that they had a "high-level discussion" and added that the details of the meeting would be out soon.
