LATUR — Maharashtra BJP President Ravindra Chavan issued a formal apology on Tuesday after his controversial remarks regarding the late former Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh, the father of bollywood actor Riteish Deshmukh.
The Controversy began during a campaign speech on January 5, 2026. Ravindra Chavan, the Maharashtra BJP President was speaking in Latur ahead of the upcoming city elections(Latur Mahanagarpalika). During his speech, Chavan mentioned that the memory of the late Vilasrao Deshmukh—who was a former Chief Minister and Riteish’s father would be “wiped out” from the city. He suggested that the BJP’s rising popularity meant the Deshmukh family’s influence is coming to an end.
Riteish Deshmukh’s Response
Riteish Deshmukh responded by posting an emotional video on social media. In the video, he spoke calmly with his hands folded. He told his followers, “What is written can be erased, but what is etched cannot be erased.” He explained that leaders who truly serve the people stay in their hearts forever and no political change can remove that legacy.
The actor’s message was shared widely and many people criticized the BJP leader’s comments. On January 6, 2026, Ravindra Chavan issued a formal apology. He clarified that he did not mean to disrespect the late leader’s memory or attack his legacy.
Political Reaction
The Congress Party strongly criticized the BJP leader’s comments. They said the remarks showed an “arrogance of power.” They also stated it was an insult to Vilasrao Deshmukh, who served as the Chief Minister of the state twice.
Amit Deshmukh, who is Riteish’s brother and a Congress leader also shared his thoughts. He called the comments “very unfortunate and deeply upsetting.” He added that the words had hurt the feelings of the people living in Latur.
