Maharashtra BJP president Ravindra Chavan on Tuesday issued an apology over his controversial remarks about former chief minister Vilasrao Deshmukh, following a heartfelt response from the late leader’s son and Bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh.
The controversy erupted after Chavan, while addressing party workers in Latur on Monday, stated that the “memories of Vilasrao Deshmukh would be wiped out” from the city. The remark drew sharp criticism from the Congress, which accused the BJP of attempting to undermine the legacy of a leader widely respected for his contribution to Maharashtra’s development.
Riteish Deshmukh’s emotional message
Responding through a video statement on social media, Riteish Deshmukh said that the memories of leaders who lived for the people cannot be erased. “What is written can be erased, but what is etched in people’s hearts cannot be removed,” the 47-year-old actor said, his message striking an emotional chord with many across political lines.
His statement was widely shared online and prompted renewed debate on political discourse and respect for legacy in Maharashtra.
BJP chief clarifies, offers apology
Facing backlash, Ravindra Chavan clarified on Tuesday that his remarks were not intended to insult the late Congress stalwart. Speaking to reporters in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, he said civic issues and development should be the focus of local body elections, not personalities.
“Vilasrao Deshmukh was a big leader who served the state as chief minister. If my statement has hurt the feelings of his son, who is also a good friend of mine, I apologise with folded hands,” Chavan said, adding that his words should not be viewed through a political lens.
Congress condemns remarks
Vilasrao Deshmukh’s elder son and Congress leader Amit Deshmukh strongly condemned Chavan’s comments, stating that no outsider could erase his father’s memories from Latur. “This is not Maharashtra’s culture,” he said.
State Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal also criticised the BJP leader, calling the remarks arrogant and dangerous. He reiterated that Vilasrao Deshmukh’s contribution to the state and the Marathwada region remains immense.
Legacy beyond politics
Vilasrao Deshmukh, a two-time chief minister who passed away in 2012, hailed from Latur and is remembered for championing regional development and inclusive governance. The episode has reignited discussion on political rhetoric, legacy, and the enduring impact of leaders beyond electoral politics.