BJP Leader Ravindra Chavan Claims Memories of Deshmukh Will Be Erased from Latur, Congress Responds

Maharashtra BJP president Ravindra Chavan stated that memories of former Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh would be erased from Latur, prompting strong criticism from Congress regarding his legacy and contributions to the state.

Maharashtra BJP president Ravindra Chavan recently made controversial comments about the late Vilasrao Deshmukh, a former Chief Minister and Congress leader. Speaking at a gathering in Latur, Chavan suggested that Deshmukh's memories would be erased from the city. He urged party workers to chant slogans like "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" and "Vande Mataram," claiming their enthusiasm would wipe out Deshmukh's legacy.

The Congress party quickly condemned Chavan's remarks, accusing the BJP of attempting to undermine Deshmukh's contributions to Maharashtra's development. They described the comments as arrogant and ignorant of Deshmukh's legacy. In a statement from Mumbai, the Congress asserted that no one could erase Deshmukh's memories from Latur, highlighting his dedication to the district's progress.

Congress Defends Vilasrao Deshmukh's Legacy

The Congress emphasised that Deshmukh had given Latur national recognition and dedicated his life to its development. They accused BJP leaders of making disrespectful remarks while visiting Latur, driven by power intoxication. The party questioned what such leaders knew about Deshmukh's deep bond with Latur, warning that the people would not tolerate insults to their beloved leader.

Senior Congress leader Balasaheb Thorat praised Deshmukh as an architect of modern Maharashtra. He noted that Deshmukh's work is evident across the state, from villages to cities. Thorat argued that attempts to erase his memories would only strengthen them in people's hearts. He criticised the BJP for ideological bankruptcy in trying to diminish a leader with an unshakable place in people's minds.

Reactions from Congress Leaders

AICC general secretary Manikrao Thakare called Chavan's remarks unfortunate and condemnable. State Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant criticised the BJP for wanting to erase Deshmukh's memories 13 years after his passing. Sawant argued that Hindutva politics should not involve hatred, citing teachings from RSS gatherings and Lord Ram about ending enmity after death.

Amit Deshmukh, son of Vilasrao Deshmukh, expressed deep distress over Chavan's comments. He stated that such remarks were unexpected from Chavan or the BJP and hurt the sentiments of Latur residents. Amit emphasised that his father's impact on Latur was profound and enduring, and no outsider could erase those memories with mere words.

Vilasrao Deshmukh served as Maharashtra's Chief Minister twice and hailed from Latur. His contributions to the region are well-remembered, with many considering him a key figure in its development. The Congress party remains firm in defending his legacy against any attempts to diminish it.

With inputs from PTI