‘Don’t need invitation, can visit Ayodhya whenever I wish to’: Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray

Uddhav Thackeray’s claim came amid a controversy over him receiving an invitation to attend the consecration of the Ram Mandir, a claim denied by Thackeray himself.

He also slammed the BJP and said the party should not make the consecration of the temple a political event. (PTI Photo)

By asserting that Lord Ram is not the property of any individual or political party, Shiv Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray Saturday said while he has not received any invitation to attend the consecration of the Ram Mandir, he does not need one to visit Ayodhya.

He also slammed the BJP and said the party should not make the consecration of the temple a political event. Thackeray also claimed that the Sena UBT has made contributions towards the construction of the Ram Mandir from its funds too and asserted that the temple is a result of collective contribution.

“Ram Lalla belongs to all. Whenever I wish, I will go to Ayodhya. Ram Lalla is not the property of one party or a person. Ram Lalla belongs to the crores of his devotees. Hence, there should be no politics in the name of the Lord Ram. Also, the decision to build the Ram Temple was given by the court and not taken by the government,” Thackeray said.

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Thackeray’s claim came amid a controversy over him receiving an invitation to attend the consecration of the Ram Mandir, a claim denied by Thackeray himself.

“Whether I have received an invitation or not is not the issue. But just one person should not take credit for it. Bal Thackeray’s voting rights were taken away by the Election Commission for campaigning in support of the Ram Mandir and supporting Hindutva, lakhs of karsevaks have sacrificed for Ram Mandir,” he said.

The Sena UBT chief added, “Lalkrishna Advani had started the Rath Yatra and the credit goes to him as well. Forget about me, I have learnt that even Advani ji and Murali Manohar Joshi have also not received the invitation. The fight for the Ram temple was a matter of faith and we are happy that the temple is being built.”

Thackeray said since the government is conducting the event, it will be nice if the President of India comes and inaugurates it. He said the move will send a good message across the country and in the world.

Vallabh Ozarkar

Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With more than nine years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read More

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