Devendra Fadnavis Emphasizes True Essence of Hindutva in Maharashtra Politics

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has reiterated that his party has never sought votes by merely showcasing Hindutva, which he describes as the core of their identity. In response to recent comments from AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi regarding a hijab-wearing mayor, Fadnavis emphasized the need to clarify the true meaning of Hindutva. He also criticized Uddhav Thackeray for allegedly abandoning Hindutva for electoral benefits and discussed the removal of loudspeakers from places of worship, asserting that this action aligns with the law and the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray. Fadnavis's statements highlight the ongoing political discourse surrounding Hindutva in Maharashtra.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 14, 2026, 15:09 IST

Fadnavis Defends Hindutva as Core Belief

On Wednesday, Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis asserted that his party has never sought votes by merely showcasing Hindutva, describing it as the essence of their identity. In a conversation with a news outlet, he emphasized that Hindutva is deeply rooted in Marathi society, and his party respects the traditions and beliefs of all communities. Fadnavis stated, "Hindutva is our soul. We have never solicited votes through a mere facade of Hindutva; we have simply adhered to its principles. Is there any Marathi individual who does not believe in Hindutva? We honor the Hindutva of every caste and follow it according to their traditions."

Response to Owaisi's Comments

In a subtle rebuttal to AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi's recent remarks regarding a woman wearing a hijab becoming mayor, Fadnavis expressed that claiming to ally with 'Marathi Muslims' to elect a hijab-wearing mayor misleads the identity of Marathi people. He remarked, "When someone claims to form an alliance with 'Marathi Muslims' to elect a hijab-wearing woman as mayor, it distorts the identity of Marathi people. We must clarify what Hindutva truly represents before presenting it to the public."

Criticism of Uddhav Thackeray

Fadnavis also targeted Uddhav Thackeray, the leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), accusing him of abandoning Hindutva for electoral gains by appeasing a particular community. Addressing the issue of loudspeakers outside places of worship, the Chief Minister claimed that his government fulfilled the long-standing demand of Balasaheb Thackeray by removing them in accordance with the law and Supreme Court guidelines.

Clarification on Loudspeaker Removal

He stated, "Dissociating from Hindutva merely to gain votes and attract a specific community is something Uddhav Thackeray must answer for. The removal of loudspeakers was a dream of Balasaheb. We acted in accordance with the law and the Supreme Court to have them taken down. It is now clear that regardless of which government comes to power in the future, loudspeakers cannot be reinstalled. Those who claimed they would reinstall them after coming to power are now resorting to flattery. They should feel ashamed."