Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and MLA Aaditya Thackeray launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during a public event in Mumbai. He accused the ruling party of branding anyone who advocates for environmental protection as an "urban Naxal." Thackeray made these remarks at the Loksatta Loksamvad program on Saturday, January 14, 2026.
BJP's Alleged Mislabeling of Environmentalists
Aaditya Thackeray expressed his frustration with the BJP's stance on environmental issues. He stated that every time he participates in protests to safeguard the environment, he believes the BJP views him as an "urban Naxal." In his words, the party considers anyone who talks about protecting the environment or shows sympathy for farmers to fall under this label.
Thackeray emphasized that this attitude reflects a deeper problem. He alleged that the BJP cannot differentiate between genuine development and environmental destruction. According to him, the party's policies often prioritize short-term gains over long-term ecological health.
Criticism of Environmental Failures
During his speech, Thackeray highlighted several environmental concerns in Maharashtra. He pointed to Mumbai's severe air pollution crisis, holding the state government and municipal administration fully responsible. He accused the Mahayuti government of having no real concern for the environment, leading to widespread public health issues.
Thackeray did not mince words when discussing specific projects. He mentioned mining proposals in the Ghodezhari wildlife sanctuary and the Tadoba region. He also criticized plans for an underground highway through Pune's Vetal tekdi and the proposed cutting of nearly 45,000 mangrove trees for the Versova-Bhayander coastal road project.
Questionable Development Projects
Aaditya Thackeray argued that many projects pushed in the name of development are causing significant environmental damage. He cited the example of Vidarbha, where the government is keen on starting mining at Lohargad in the Ghodezhari wildlife sanctuary. Thackeray noted that the mineral reserves there would last barely twelve months and would not generate substantial revenue.
He expressed dismay that despite this area being part of a tiger habitat, the BJP remains adamant about proceeding with mining. Thackeray called this approach unfortunate and harmful to biodiversity.
Infrastructure Concerns in Pune
Thackeray also addressed infrastructure planning in Pune. He mentioned an attempt to push through an underground road project via Vetal Tekdi. According to him, local citizens argue that this project will not significantly reduce travel time and is unnecessary. Despite public opposition, the BJP wants to dig a tunnel through the area, alongside plans for a Metro tunnel and a flyover above it.
Demands for Policy Reversal
Referring to a Loksatta report, Thackeray highlighted that thousands of acres of land inside Sanjay Gandhi National Park are being handed over to developers. He demanded that the government revoke this decision immediately. He alleged that the government's focus is on regularizing bungalows in the Yeoor forest area within the park, which threatens the park's integrity.
Past Environmental Advocacy
Thackeray recalled his personal involvement in environmental protests. He mentioned going to Nashik's Tapovan area to oppose the felling of trees and submitting a written assurance to protect them. He stressed that development and environmental protection can coexist, as demonstrated in the past.
For the Versova-Bhayander coastal road project, Thackeray pointed out that around 45,000 mangrove trees are slated to be cut. He argued that a simple change in the project design could have saved these crucial trees. He reiterated that sustainable development is possible if there is a will to balance progress with ecological preservation.
Broader Political Implications
Aaditya Thackeray's comments come amid ongoing political tensions in Maharashtra. He spoke at length on various issues, including municipal election-related concerns and allegations made by the BJP. His speech underscores the growing debate over environmental policies in India, where rapid development often clashes with conservation efforts.
Thackeray's allegations suggest a deep-seated conflict between political ideologies regarding how to approach environmental issues. He framed the BJP's development agenda as one that leads citizens to hospitals due to pollution and health problems, rather than improving their quality of life.
In conclusion, Aaditya Thackeray's remarks at the Loksatta Loksamvad program highlight a critical perspective on India's environmental governance. He called for a more nuanced understanding of development that does not equate progress with destruction. His speech serves as a rallying cry for those advocating for sustainable policies in the face of political resistance.
