Maharashtra CM condemns alleged vandalism of Meenatai Thackeray’s bust, orders probe

PUNE: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has condemned the alleged incident of paint being thrown at the bust of the wife of late Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray, Meenatai Thackeray.

On Wednesday morning, red paint was found on the bust of Meenatai Thackeray at the historic Shivaji Park in Dadar, Mumbai. While speaking on the issue with the reporters in Pune on Thursday, CM Fadnavis assured an investigation into the matter and mentioned that the police will track down the culprits involved in the case.

“Such an incident is completely condemned. Whoever has done this, the police will track them down and take action. I do not find it appropriate to drag too much politics into this matter,” CM Fadnavis said.

Paint thrown on statue of Late Meenatai Thackeray at Mumbai’s Chatrapati Shivaji Park. @MumbaiPolice launches probe. ShivSainiks r gathering at the spot. For @ShivSenaUBT_ cadre, Maa Saheb statue holds faith, motherly love, belonginess & affection. @CMOMaharashtra @AUThackeray pic.twitter.com/Xqc9PTht45

— Sanjay Pathak (@sanjaypathak80) September 17, 2025

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey termed the incident a major failure of the Maharashtra government. He questioned how the culprits were able to succeed in their motive despite the presence of CCTV cameras and police patrols.

“If someone dared to throw paint on her statue and then flee, it shows a major failure of the current Maharashtra government. Today is the era of CCTV cameras everywhere, with police patrolling the streets,” Anand Dubey said. He also demanded immediate action by Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis into the matter, stating that the party workers are staying quiet on the behest of Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray.

“So, how are statues of our great people getting defaced? Was this done intentionally?… We demand that Devendra Fadnavis take immediate action. We’re all staying quiet at the behest of Uddhav Thackeray. Otherwise, if all Shiv Sainiks take to the streets, it won’t be good for anyone”, he said. (ANI)