'We Are Hindus, Not Hindi': Raj Thackeray Slams Fadnavis, Demands Marathi Mayor

Raj Thackeray slams Fadnavis, demands Marathi mayors, criticises BJP over unopposed elections in Maharashtra.

By : Ritwik Dutta | Updated at : 04 Jan 2026 06:28 PM (IST)

Raj thackeray slams fadnavis demands marathi bjp unopposed elections 'We Are Hindus, Not Hindi': Raj Thackeray Slams Fadnavis, Demands Marathi Mayor

Raj Thackeray warned those in power against assuming permanence.

Source : Digital Media

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Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray on Sunday criticised Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis over his Hindu Marathi campaign, saying, “We are Hindus, not Hindi. What kind of Hindu Marathi is being imposed here? This is Maharashtra, and Marathi must be respected. The mayor of Mumbai will be a Marathi.”

Raj referred to historical context, citing the Peshwa era and questioning why all mayors in the Baroda Empire were Gujaratis. “This is Maharashtra, and the mayor of every city in Maharashtra will be a Marathi,” he asserted.

Show Development Even If Blocked

On the implementation of state and central schemes, Raj said the MNS wants to carry out development, but if permission is denied, authorities should at least allow them to demonstrate the work, even if actual execution is blocked. Former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray intervened, adding, “Let them stop the development works, let their hypocrisy come to light.”

Wrong Steps Will Backfire

Raj warned those in power against assuming permanence. “No one has come with an immortal belt of power. The wrong steps you are taking today will be used twice as much tomorrow,” he said, cautioning rulers not to forget that their actions impact democracy.

BJP’s Role Questioned

Raj also criticised the BJP over unopposed elections in Maharashtra, pointing out the party had opposed similar elections in West Bengal through the Supreme Court. “Now what is the BJP’s position regarding these incidents happening in Maharashtra? They must speak clearly,” he demanded. He further warned that attempts to manipulate Maharashtra like UP or Bihar were dangerous for a state that has historically given direction to the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Raj Thackeray's stance on the Hindu Marathi campaign?

Raj Thackeray criticized the Hindu Marathi campaign, emphasizing that Maharashtrians are Hindu, not Hindi. He asserted that Marathi must be respected in Maharashtra and that the Mayor of Mumbai should be Marathi.

What is Raj Thackeray's view on development?

Raj Thackeray stated that the MNS wants to implement development projects. If permission is denied, he wants authorities to at least allow them to showcase the planned work, even if execution is blocked.

What warning did Raj Thackeray issue to those in power?

Raj Thackeray warned that no one holds power forever. He cautioned that wrong decisions made today will have a greater backlash tomorrow, impacting democracy.

Why did Raj Thackeray criticize the BJP's role in Maharashtra's unopposed elections?

Raj Thackeray questioned the BJP's stance on unopposed elections in Maharashtra, given their opposition to similar elections in West Bengal. He demanded clarity from the BJP on this matter.

About the author Ritwik Dutta

Ritwik Dutta is a Senior Copy Editor at ABP Live English, who blends an engineer’s precision with a reporter’s instinct. With a background in data and analytics, he delivers evidence-driven, real-time coverage of key national and global developments, breaking down complex subjects into clear, engaging stories that make information more accessible and strengthen public understanding.

For tips and queries, write to ritwikd@abpnetwork.com.