MUMBAI: A heated political row has erupted in Maharashtra following a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader’s assertion that the legacy of late Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh would be “wiped out.” The comments drew a sharp, emotional rebuttal on Tuesday from the late leader’s son, actor Riteish Deshmukh, who stated that while names on paper can be erased, those in the hearts of the people cannot.
The controversy began on Monday during a BJP rally in Latur, the Deshmukh family’s traditional bastion. Addressing party workers ahead of the upcoming local body elections, Maharashtra BJP President Ravindra Chavan expressed confidence in the party’s rising influence in the region.
“I can tell you with 100% certainty that the memories of Vilasrao Deshmukh will be wiped out from this city,” Chavan declared, signalling the BJP’s intent to dismantle the Congress’s stronghold in the district.
The statement triggered an immediate backlash from Congress leaders and supporters of the late Chief Minister, who is widely credited with Latur’s development. However, it was the response from his son, Riteish Deshmukh, that garnered widespread attention.
In a video statement released on social media, the actor, visibly emotional, refrained from political mudslinging but offered a poignant defense of his father’s contribution.
“I have heard the statement made by the BJP leader,” Riteish said, with folded hands. “I only wish to say this: The names of those who lived for the people are not written on paper, they are etched in hearts. What is written on paper can be erased, but what is etched in hearts cannot be removed.”
He further added, “Deep down, even he [Chavan] knows how much love the people of Latur have for Vilasrao Deshmukh. I wish him all the best.”
The exchange highlights the high stakes in the Marathwada region, where the BJP has been aggressively trying to unseat established political families. Vilasrao Deshmukh, a two-time Chief Minister and former Union Minister, remains a polarizing but potent figure in state politics years after his death in 2012.
Following the uproar, Chavan issued a clarification late Tuesday, attempting to diffuse the situation. “Vilasrao Deshmukh was a tall leader of Maharashtra. My comments were strictly political and regarding the waning influence of the Congress party in Latur. If my words have hurt Riteish, who is a friend, I express my regrets,” Chavan said.
Political analysts suggest the incident may consolidate sympathy for the Deshmukh family, complicating the BJP’s strategy in a district where emotional connect often outweighs party allegiance.
