Latur/Mumbai, Jan 6 (NationPress) A significant political controversy has ignited in Maharashtra due to provocative comments made by state BJP President Ravindra Chavan about the late former Chief Minister and Congress leader Vilasrao Deshmukh. These remarks, delivered during a critical campaign for the upcoming municipal corporation elections, have met with strong opposition from both the Deshmukh family and the Congress party, compelling Chavan to issue an apology.

During a rally with BJP booth presidents and workers in Latur, a region historically associated with the Deshmukh family, Ravindra Chavan highlighted the party's growing influence. He stated, “I can say with 100 per cent certainty that the memories of Vilasrao Deshmukh will be wiped out from this city,” to the enthusiasm of the audience.

This comment was perceived as an attempt to signify a political shift in Latur, where the legacy of the late CM, who served two terms from 1999–2003 and 2004–2008, is a fundamental aspect of local identity.

However, Chavan's words quickly drew widespread condemnation from various political factions.

Amit Deshmukh, son of former CM Vilasrao Deshmukh and current Congress MLA, deemed the remarks “extremely unfortunate and distressing,” accusing the BJP of “ideological bankruptcy” and disrespecting a leader who devoted his life to the state.

Riteish Deshmukh, Amit's brother and a well-known actor, also responded cautiously, asserting that his father’s legacy is “etched in the hearts” of the people and cannot be erased by mere statements.

“I humbly state that the names of those who dedicated their lives to the public are forever remembered. What may be written can be erased, but what is truly etched cannot be,”

Riteish Deshmukh expressed.

Congress leaders organized vigorous protests in Latur, demanding a sincere apology. They argued that even amidst elections, the “culture of Maharashtra” disallows the insult of deceased leaders.

State Congress General Secretary Sachin Sawant criticized Ravindra Chavan, saying, “Such hatred, such contempt! That even 13 years after Vilasrao's passing, the BJP should wish for his memories to be destroyed?”

He further reminded that in Hinduism, there is no place for hatred or contempt, emphasizing the teachings of Lord Shri Ram.

In response to the public and political backlash, Ravindra Chavan issued a clarification and a personal apology on Tuesday.

In his remarks to the press, Chavan asserted that his comments aimed to address the political landscape in Latur rather than serve as a personal attack. Nonetheless, he added, “Vilasrao Deshmukh was a significant leader and served as Chief Minister. If the feelings of his son, who is a dear friend, are hurt, I apologize.”

This controversy arises at a pivotal time as Maharashtra prepares for polling in 29 municipal corporations, including Mumbai, Pune, and Latur, on January 15, 2026.

Political analysts suggest that the BJP is cautious about the “sympathy factor” or “Latur pride” that such remarks could provoke, potentially benefiting the Congress in the area.