Meenatai Thackeray Statue Vandalized in Mumbai

Rapid Summary

• An unidentified individual allegedly threw red paint on the statue of late Meenatai Thackeray, wife of Shiv Sena founder Bal thackeray, at Shivaji Park in Mumbai on September 17, 2025.
• The incident was discovered around 6:30 a.m. by locals; Shiv Sena (UBT) workers alerted the police.
• CCTV footage indicates the act occurred after 6:10 a.m., and investigations are ongoing to identify the perpetrator.
• Uddhav Thackeray, son of Meenatai and leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), criticized the act and likened it to previous disruptive incidents in Indian politics.
• Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray visited the spot and urged authorities to apprehend the accused within 24 hours.
• Shiv Sena MLA Mahesh Sawant linked it to “a rally opposing an India-Pakistan cricket match.”
• Leaders across political lines condemned the incident. Minister Yogesh Kadam called for strong action, referring to Meenatai as “the mother for all Shiv Sainiks.”

Indian Opinion Analysis

The defacement of Meenatai Thackeray’s statue has sparked condemnation from various political leaders across Maharashtra. This act is not just an instance of vandalism but also resonates emotionally with manny due to its symbolic nature-Meenatai holds cultural significance for her contribution alongside Bal Thackeray.

The reactions signal a unified sentiment against any form of public desecration tied to such figures, irrespective of party affiliations. Tho, linking this unfortunate incident with broader political themes or recent rallies could risk overshadowing its primary issue-protecting heritage symbols and deterring miscreants through thorough investigation.

Given Mumbai’s civic history bound tightly with political allegory, ensuring swift accountability will likely set a precedent against future acts that disturb social unity while respecting differing ideologies.

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