Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of “betraying Hindus” and misusing religious sentiments for political gain. He referred to the alleged irregularities in donations linked to the Ram Temple in Ayodhya to question what he called the BJP’s version of Hindutva.
Addressing a rally in the Yavatmal-Washim constituency, Thackeray said, “Real Hindutva teaches humanity. We reject your Hindutva of looting temples. We want ‘BJP-mukt Ram’ and Shiv Sena (UBT) will lead such protests.”
His remarks came amid a political controversy surrounding alleged lapses in donation management at the Ram Temple, where a Special Investigation Team (SIT) has reportedly arrested eight people involved in handling cash and valuables. Authorities have said nearly ₹79.85 lakh was recovered during the investigation.
Allegations of Misuse of Temple Donations
Thackeray claimed that the controversy reflects deeper issues in how religious institutions are being managed. He alleged that the BJP has “played with the emotions of Hindus” while projecting itself as the guardian of Hindutva.
The SIT probe into the donation system at the Ram Temple has triggered a political storm, with opposition leaders demanding accountability over the alleged irregularities.
Thackeray used the issue to intensify his criticism of the BJP, saying, “We reject your Hindutva of looting temples.”
Attack on Rebel Leaders and Political Splits
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also targeted former party members who defected to the Eknath Shinde-led faction, accusing them of betrayal. He said those who switched sides had broken the trust of voters.
Referring to a recent defection, Thackeray said, “At my suggestion, I gave you a scarecrow… you elected him, and for that I apologise. He betrayed us and blackened the trust you placed in him.”
He added that loyal party workers remain with him, while those who left have shown “their true colours.”
Revival of ‘50 Khokha’ Allegation
Thackeray also repeated his earlier allegation related to the 2022 Shiv Sena split, invoking the controversial “50 khokha” claim, a phrase used in Maharashtra politics to suggest alleged payments of ₹50 crore per MLA during political switching.
He questioned the integrity of the split and said that political betrayal had become a pattern. “Back then it was written on the bullocks—‘50 crores’. The going rate of MLAs was 50 crores—so what must it be now?” he said.
Political Battle Over Hindutva Narrative
Thackeray’s remarks further sharpen the ideological battle between Shiv Sena (UBT) and the BJP, particularly over the definition of Hindutva. While he positioned his party’s ideology as rooted in “humanity and service,” he accused the BJP of using religion for political and financial manipulation.
