Raj Thackeray Questions Centre’s Iran Policy, Flags Maharashtra’s Rising Debt and Governance Issues

Mumbai, March 2026 : Raj Thackeray, chief of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), on Thursday raised sharp questions over the Central government’s stance on Iran, while also criticising economic and governance issues within Maharashtra during his Gudi Padwa address.

Speaking at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park, Thackeray said India’s lack of visible support for Iran during recent developments could have long-term diplomatic and economic consequences. He described Iran as a long-standing ally of India, particularly on sensitive matters such as Jammu and Kashmir, and stressed that such relationships should not be overlooked.

“When Iran was attacked, there was no statement of support from our leadership. Even after the passing of Ali Khamenei, there was no official condolence or protest,” he said, criticising what he viewed as silence from the Centre led by Narendra Modi.

Thackeray also pointed to India’s energy ties with Iran, noting that a significant portion of India’s oil imports historically came from the country and that Iran had facilitated trade in rupees. He warned that weakening such strategic ties could affect India’s economic interests.

The speech coincided with the 20th anniversary of the MNS, which Thackeray described as a “divine milestone.” Despite recent electoral setbacks, including the party’s poor performance in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, he expressed confidence that the MNS would eventually rise to power and restore what he called Maharashtra’s “lost glory.”

In a wide-ranging address, Thackeray also criticised the state’s financial condition. He highlighted the sharp rise in Maharashtra’s debt—from around ₹2 lakh crore in 2014 under former Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan to nearly ₹11 lakh crore at present. “There is talk of building a $3 trillion economy, but the state is drowning in debt,” he remarked.

He further raised concerns about urban development, describing Maharashtra’s cities as “collapsed” and “directionless.” Thackeray criticised the indiscriminate approval of high-rise buildings without addressing basic civic issues such as traffic congestion, infrastructure gaps, and urban planning.

Addressing the youth, he urged them to move beyond digital distractions and become more socially and politically aware. “Step out of Instagram reels. The government wants you occupied with entertainment like IPL, films, and social media so that you don’t question them. Expressing anger only on mobile screens will not bring change,” he said.

Reflecting on his early political journey, Thackeray recalled advice from his uncle and mentor, Balasaheb Thackeray, who had emphasised the importance of substance over style in public speeches. Thackeray said this lesson continues to guide him.

Despite electoral challenges and shifting political dynamics, Thackeray asserted that the MNS remains committed to representing the interests of Maharashtra and its people. He maintained that the party would eventually emerge stronger and come to power, reaffirming his belief in its long-term political relevance.