Raj Thackeray Appeals for Marathi Unity, Shinde Highlights Development Agenda Ahead of BMC Polls

Mumbai, Jan 2026 : Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Sunday made a passionate appeal for Marathi unity, warning that the state’s language, land, and identity are under threat. Addressing party workers ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections on January 15, Raj said migrants from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar should not attempt to impose Hindi in Maharashtra, insisting that any such efforts would be resisted firmly.

“This is a decisive election for Marathi people,” Raj said, urging locals to unite for the protection of Maharashtra’s language and heritage. “People from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar should understand that Hindi is not your language. I do not hate this language… but if you try to impose it, I will teach you a lesson. People are coming to Maharashtra from all over and snatching your share… If both land and language are lost, your existence will be destroyed. Today, this crisis has knocked on your door.”

He described the upcoming BMC polls as the “last election for a Marathi man”, emphasizing the need for vigilance. “If you miss this opportunity today, your game will be over. Unite for Marathi and Maharashtra,” he warned. Raj also issued instructions to party workers and Booth Level Agents (BLAs), urging them to be alert and maintain strict discipline. “Mumbai was achieved through the sacrifices of so many people… What will we tell them? BLAs appointed at 6 a.m. should be ready on election day. Be alert, be cautious, don’t be careless… If anyone comes to vote again, throw them out,” he added.

Earlier, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde highlighted the Mahayuti government’s development agenda for Marathis. Speaking at the launch of the Mahayuti manifesto, Shinde said the government plans to build 30-35 lakh houses, invest ₹17,000 crore to develop Mumbai as a fintech hub, strengthen roads, reduce pollution, and make the city slum-free. He noted that welfare schemes have been introduced in line with Balasaheb Thackeray’s vision, emphasizing that Mumbai’s development is for the Marathis.

Shinde said, “We are working on an SRA project for 17,000 people in Ghatkopar. Our goal is to build 30-35 lakh houses. We will make Mumbai a fintech capital and set up a world-class university. In BEST, we have decided to give 50% reservation to women. We will invest ₹17,000 crore, strengthen all roads, and make the city pollution-free. Mumbai was Balasaheb’s dream, and we are committed to realizing it.”

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with Shinde and BJP National General Secretary Vinod Tawde, also released the Mahayuti manifesto for the BMC elections.

Meanwhile, voting for 29 municipal corporations across Maharashtra, including Mumbai, Pune, and Pimpri-Chinchwad, will be held on January 15, with the counting of votes scheduled for January 16. Both leaders are seeking to energize their supporters in the final stretch, with Raj focusing on Marathi identity and Shinde emphasizing development and welfare initiatives.