Sanjay Raut calls for Bharat Ratna to honor Balasaheb Thackeray on his birth anniversary

On the birth anniversary of Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut demanded that the iconic leader be posthumously awarded the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor. Raut highlighted Thackeray's contributions to the Marathi people and his lasting impact on Maharashtra's political landscape.

“Balasaheb Thackeray should be conferred with the Bharat Ratna. He tirelessly fought for the rights of the Marathi people and built Shiv Sena into a formidable force,” Raut said, according to ANI.

Raut criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, calling their social media tributes to Balasaheb hypocritical. “Tweeting tributes while attempting to dismantle the Shiv Sena is disrespectful to Balasaheb’s legacy. Real respect lies in honoring him with the Bharat Ratna,” he remarked.

He praised Balasaheb as a leader who never sought power yet shaped Maharashtra’s identity and political landscape. “Balasaheb transformed ordinary citizens into leaders. His legacy remains unmatched, and leaders like him will not be born again. Awarding him the Bharat Ratna would be a true homage, far more meaningful than social media tributes,” Raut added.

Balasaheb Thackeray, a towering figure in Indian politics, founded Shiv Sena to champion the rights of the Marathi community and promote cultural pride. His influence reshaped Maharashtra’s political narrative, earning him respect across the spectrum.

Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis paid their tributes to Balasaheb on his birth anniversary. PM Modi, in a post on X, wrote, “Balasaheb is remembered for his commitment to public welfare, Maharashtra’s development, and his core beliefs, which enhanced the pride of Indian culture.”

Raut’s demand adds to the growing calls for recognizing Thackeray’s unparalleled contributions to the state and the nation.