Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis criticized Uddhav Thackeray and his cousin Raj Thackeray for organizing a joint 'Tiranga' march in Mumbai, accusing them of using student protests as a political strategy to regain relevance.

Fadnavis argued that the march, which coincided with protests against exam malpractices, lacked genuine student involvement and was instead a bid to reclaim political space.

He highlighted the Shiv Sena's recent setbacks, including the loss of six Lok Sabha members to the ruling Sena, and noted Raj Thackeray's party, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, being marginalized in state politics.

Fadnavis also addressed the broader context of protests, warning against politically motivated violence and emphasizing the need for peaceful demonstrations.

Additionally, he mentioned the government's plans for the Pandharpur temple corridor project, aiming to complete key components within two to two-and-a-half years.

Uddhav Thackeray, meanwhile, warned the government against using force against protesters, asserting that the movement was a 'jan ki baat' (people's issue) that Delhi must heed.The article underscores the political tensions in Maharashtra and the strategic use of protests by opposition leaders.