Aditya Thackeray Targets Devendra Fadnavis and Raj Thackeray Over Shivaji Park Rally Ahead of BMC Election 2026

Aditya Thackeray launched sharp criticism against Devendra Fadnavis and Raj Thackeray over the Shivaji Park rally, intensifying political rhetoric ahead of the BMC Election 2026.

January 12, 2026 | Mumbai – On January 12, 2026, Maharashtra’s political atmosphere witnessed renewed intensity as Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray strongly criticized Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena chief Raj Thackeray over the recent Shivaji Park public meeting. The remarks have added fresh fuel to the already heated political discourse ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) Election 2026.

Aditya Thackeray questioned the intent and messaging of the Shivaji Park rally, suggesting that it was driven more by political positioning than by genuine concern for Mumbai or Maharashtra. Without mincing words, he accused the ruling dispensation of using iconic locations and emotive issues to divert public attention from pressing civic problems faced by citizens in Mumbai. His comments were seen as a direct challenge to both the BJP leadership and Raj Thackeray’s political stance.

Referring to Devendra Fadnavis, Aditya Thackeray alleged that the BJP was attempting to rewrite political narratives by selectively invoking Marathi identity and regional pride. He argued that while speeches highlight grand ideas and symbolism, ground-level issues such as deteriorating infrastructure, rising living costs, and civic mismanagement continue to affect Mumbai residents. According to him, the focus should remain on governance rather than political theatrics.

Aditya Thackeray also took aim at Raj Thackeray, questioning his political alignment and the broader implications of his participation in such rallies. He suggested that shifting political positions confuse the Marathi-speaking electorate and weaken collective efforts to address Mumbai’s long-term challenges. His remarks were interpreted as an attempt to consolidate the Shiv Sena (UBT) narrative as the true inheritor of Marathi pride and Mumbai-centric politics.

The statements made on January 12, 2026, have triggered sharp reactions from rival camps. BJP leaders defended Devendra Fadnavis, asserting that the Shivaji Park gathering was meant to unite voices and address issues relevant to Maharashtra’s future. They accused Aditya Thackeray of engaging in political fear-mongering due to the approaching civic elections. Meanwhile, supporters of Raj Thackeray dismissed the criticism as politically motivated and aimed at undermining his influence in Mumbai politics.

Political analysts believe that the Shivaji Park rally controversy reflects deeper fault lines within Maharashtra’s political landscape. With the BMC Election 2026 approaching, parties are aggressively shaping narratives to appeal to core voter bases. Mumbai, being the financial capital and a politically significant battleground, remains central to these strategies.

Observers note that Aditya Thackeray’s aggressive stance is part of a broader effort by the Shiv Sena (UBT) to reassert its relevance and mobilize supporters. By directly confronting prominent leaders like Devendra Fadnavis and Raj Thackeray, he aims to position his party as a strong opposition force capable of challenging both the BJP and rival regional players.

As of January 12, 2026, the political temperature in Mumbai continues to rise, with more confrontations expected in the coming weeks. The debate surrounding the Shivaji Park rally has underscored how symbolic spaces and public meetings are increasingly becoming flashpoints in electoral politics. With alliances, identities, and governance issues colliding, the road to the BMC Election 2026 is set to be politically charged, and statements like those from Aditya Thackeray are likely to play a key role in shaping voter perception.

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