The recent 'Aawaz Marathicha' rally, hailed as a powerful demonstration of Marathi pride and linguistic solidarity, has now stirred political controversy, as Maharashtra Minister Uday Samant accused Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray of using the platform for political messaging.

Addressing reporters in Chiplun, Samant said that while the event was initially perceived as a cultural and social movement for justice and recognition of Marathi-speaking communities, Uddhav Thackeray’s speech revealed a deeper political motive behind the gathering. “Until this morning, it was believed that the rally was a symbol of unity among Marathi people,” Samant said. “But Uddhav Thackeray’s remarks clearly signaled an attempt to turn it into a political front.”

Samant pointed out that Uddhav’s repeated calls for "coming together and staying united" carried political undertones, especially as they came just months before crucial municipal elections in Mumbai and other cities. “It wasn’t just a rally anymore—it became a launchpad for political positioning,” he added.

In contrast, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray maintained a more reserved and issue-focused approach during his address, according to Samant. “Raj Thackeray did not talk about political alliances or unity. His speech was centered on Marathi identity and cultural pride, without venturing into political territory,” he said.