mit Thackeray Objects to PM Modi's Photo Beside Chhatrapati...
A political exchange took place at the Government Polytechnic College in Chhatrapati Shivajinagar, Pune, when Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) youth...
By GT24x7 Reporter··GlobalToday24x7
A major political event unfolded in Pune on Monday, August 31, 2026, during Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Amit Rajasaheb Thackeray's inspection visit to educational institutions. While inspecting the Government Polytechnic College in the Chhatrapati Shivajinagar Assembly Constituency to address student grievances regarding hostel facilities, canteen food quality, and campus safety, an unexpected development occurred inside the principal's office.
During the interaction, it came to light that a framed photograph of Prime Minister Narendra Modi had been positioned directly adjacent to the portrait of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj on the office wall. Expressing strong displeasure over the arrangement, Thackeray questioned the college management and noted that placing contemporary political figures on par with historical and revered icons is unacceptable.
Removal of Photograph and Official Stand
As soon as the matter came to light, party representatives removed Prime Minister Modi's photograph from the wall in the presence of Amit Rajasaheb Thackeray.
Speaking to journalists on the occasion, Amit Thackeray firmly expressed his view on the issue. He stated, "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj is the revered deity of Maharashtra. No one can be compared to him". He emphasized that while government establishments may follow protocols for displaying official portraits, equating any living politician with figures like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj or Dr. B.R. Ambedkar crosses appropriate boundaries.
Political Counter-Response and Legal Proceedings
The incident immediately sparked sharp reactions from Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders in Pune, who criticized the act as a violation of official administrative protocol regarding portraits of constitutional authorities in government institutes. BJP representatives argued that displaying the Prime Minister's photo in public institutions follows standard government norms and demanded police action over the removal. Following complaints, an FIR was registered against Thackeray and others by the Pune police.
Responding to the legal proceedings, Thackeray maintained that standing up for the respect of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj remains paramount, declaring that he is fully prepared to face any legal consequences or political resistance arising from his stance.