Raj Thackeray Targets Migrants, Uddhav Slams BJP Ahead of BMC Polls

Mumbai, Jan 2026 : Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Sunday once again stirred controversy by targeting migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, issuing a stern warning over the Hindi language. Speaking at a rally alongside his cousin Uddhav Thackeray, Raj asserted that immigrants trying to impose Hindi in Maharashtra risk being “kicked out.”

“People from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar should understand that Hindi is not your language. I don’t hate the language, but if you try to impose it, I will take action,” he said. Raj further claimed that migrants are “taking away your share” in Maharashtra and warned locals, “If you lose your land and language, you will be finished.” He urged Marathi voters to treat the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections on January 15 as crucial, calling it “the last election for Marathi people” and appealing for unity to protect Marathi identity and Maharashtra’s heritage.

Addressing party workers, Raj Thackeray instructed them to stay vigilant and enforce polling arrangements strictly. “The BLAs deployed from 6 a.m. should be ready. Be alert and don’t be careless. If anyone tries to vote again, throw them out,” he said, emphasizing strict monitoring.

Following Raj, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray addressed the crowd, accusing the BJP of divisive politics ahead of the BMC polls. He questioned whether the ruling party intends to rename Mumbai as “Bombay,” citing remarks by Tamil Nadu BJP leader K. Annamalai. Uddhav criticized the BJP’s brand of Hindutva and nationalism, calling it “fake,” and added that the party now prioritizes corruption over the nation.

Both leaders sought to energize their supporters in the final stretch before the BMC elections, with Raj focusing on Marathi identity and anti-migrant rhetoric, while Uddhav highlighted corruption and divisive politics under the BJP government.