Overview
- At a Latur rally, Ravindra Chavan told BJP workers their momentum meant “the memories of Vilasrao Deshmukh would be wiped out” from the city.
- After criticism, he apologised to Deshmukh’s sons and insisted he intended to contrast Congress’s reliance on legacy with the BJP’s development agenda.
- When asked if the apology extended to Latur residents, he declined to answer directly, saying “next question.”
- Congress leaders condemned the remark and held protests in Latur, as Riteish and Amit Deshmukh posted emotional rebuttals defending their father’s legacy.
- Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said Deshmukh is widely respected and that no one can erase his memory, as parties recalibrate messaging before the January 15 civic elections.