A visit by MNS leader Amit Thackeray to a government institution in Pune has sparked a major political row. The controversy centers around the removal of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's photograph inside a government polytechnic college, prompting authorities to initiate formal legal action. Following a formal complaint lodged by the institution's principal, police have registered a case against Amit Thackeray along with twenty to twenty-five unidentified activists, students, and workers.
The Purpose of the College Visit
Amit Thackeray arrived on Monday at the government polytechnic college located in the Ganeshkhind area of Pune. The primary objective of the visit was to evaluate student grievances and inspect the quality of facilities provided on campus. During the tour, he inspected the student hostels, mess halls, and sanitation blocks, questioning the administration regarding the upkeep of these essential services. While examining the premises, he entered the administrative office where the dispute ultimately originated.
Objection Raised Over the Displayed Portraits
Inside the office wall, a portrait of Prime Minister Narendra Modi was placed adjacent to the portrait of Chhatrapati Shivaji महाराज, alongside pictures of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar and President Droupadi Murmu. Amit Thackeray questioned why the Prime's photograph was positioned right next to the Maratha ruler inside a government facility. Acting on his instruction, a party worker accompanying him immediately removed the portrait from the wall, triggering an immediate confrontation with the staff present.
The Principal Complaint and Police Action
The matter escalated further when the college principal approached the Chaturshringi police station to file an official complaint. According to law enforcement details, the complaint states that Amit Thackeray and his supporters entered the administrative office without prior authorization. The filing alleges that the group raised questions in an aggressive tone, spoke loudly to staff members, and proceeded to take down the Prime Minister's picture despite objections raised by the administration.
Political Backlash and Reinstallation of the Portrait
Furthermore, the complaint mentions that the visitors engaged in sloganeering and warned college authorities of potential agitations, though these remain allegations subject to formal verification. Following the incident, Bharatiya Janata Party leaders strongly condemned the actions of the MNS leader. Local BJP figures argued that official institutions display portraits according to established protocols and removing the Prime Minister's photo is politically immature. Amid the escalating tensions, the college administration reinstalled the portrait of Prime Minister Narendra Modi back in its original place.
