Uddhav Thackeray Criticizes Maharashtra Government's Loan Waiver Deadline

Uddhav Thackeray, the former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, has voiced strong objections to the state's proposed deadline of June 30, 2026, for deciding on agricultural loan waivers. During his recent visit to Marathwada, he engaged with farmers and questioned whether they should continue repaying loans if a waiver is forthcoming. Thackeray emphasized the urgent need for immediate financial relief for farmers, highlighting the historical context of loan waivers during his administration. His remarks raise critical questions about the government's commitment to supporting the agricultural community.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 5, 2025, 14:42 IST

Thackeray's Concerns Over Loan Waiver Timeline

Former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray, has expressed his discontent regarding the state's deadline of June 30, 2026, for deciding on agricultural loan waivers, deeming it "unacceptable." During a conversation with farmers in a village on Wednesday, he urged Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to clarify whether farmers would still need to continue repaying their loans if the government plans to implement a waiver.

Thackeray, who leads the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction), commenced a four-day tour of Marathwada from Nandhar village in the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district, where he engaged with local farmers. Later in the day, he is scheduled to visit villages including Pali (Beed), Pathrud, Shirshav (Dharashiv), and Ghari (Solapur).

Government's Commitment to Farmers

Last week, Chief Minister Fadnavis announced that a decision regarding the agricultural loan waiver would be made by June 30 of the following year. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that farmers receive compensation for flood relief while also preparing for the Rabi sowing season.

Criticizing the government's timeline for the loan waiver, Thackeray stated, "This date is not acceptable to us. We are demanding ₹50,000 per hectare as compensation for the losses incurred by farmers. They urgently need the loan waiver as well. The government claims it wants to study this issue further."

Historical Context of Loan Waivers

Thackeray recalled that during his tenure, his government had conducted studies on this matter, and the details are still available with the current administration. He pointed out that the state government has now set a new deadline of June 30, 2026, for the loan waiver.

He raised a critical question, asking, "If the loans are set to be waived next June, should farmers continue to make their repayments now? If so, how will they manage to pay?" Thackeray reiterated the need for immediate loan waivers for farmers.