Maharashtra BJP president Ravindra Chavan's comment on erasing former Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh's legacy has drawn flak from Deshmukh's son, actor Riteish Deshmukh, and the Congress.
What did Ravindra Chavan say?
Ravindra Chavan said, during an election rally in Latur on Monday, that the BJP is going to win in the region. He went on to say that former Maharashtra CM and veteran Congressman Vilasrao Deshmukh's influence will not hold any significance in the city anymore after the BJP wins, Hindustan Times reported.
The Maharashtra BJP chief said, "Everyone, raise your hands and say Bharat Mata ki Jai... In a true sense, seeing your enthusiasm, one can notice that it's a 100% fact that memories of Vilasrao Deshmukh will be wiped out for this city, and there is no doubt about it."
Riteish claps back
Responding to Chavan's comment, the late Chief Minister's son Riteish responded through a video on social media, in which he said, "I say with folded hands that the names of those who lived for the people are etched on their minds. What is written can be erased, but you can't erase what is etched."
Congress criticises Chavan
The Congress has also criticised Ravindra Chavan for his controversial comments. The party alleged that the BJP is attempting to ignore or belittle the work of a leader who spent his entire life working for the development of the state, Hindustan Times reported.
Also Read | Viral message claiming Rs. 46,715 cash transfer is a scam, says PIB
The party said no one can wipe out Vilasrao Deshmukh's memory from Latur. It added that many people tried to do so earlier, but the proud people of Latur always gave them a clear reply.
The Congress criticised BJP leaders for making careless and disrespectful comments during their visit to Latur. The party asked how such leaders could understand the strong connection Deshmukh had with the city. They also warned that the people of Latur would not accept any insult to their respected leader and would respond firmly.
Vilasrao Deshmukh was a senior Congress leader and served as Maharashtra's chief minister twice, between 1999 and 2003, and from 2004 to 2008.
