‘You Have Clothes, Shoes, Mobiles Because of Us’ BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar Viral Video Remark Sparks Row; CM Fadnavis Distances Himself

Babanrao Lonikar Viral Video: In a statement that has triggered widespread backlash, BJP leader and former minister Babanrao Lonikar said during a public gathering, “You have clothes, shoes, and mobile phones because of us.” The remark was made in Lonikar’s constituency and was seen as patronizing by many citizens and political opponents alike. 

"आपके पास कपड़े, जूते, मोबाइल हमारी वजह से"

◆ बीजेपी नेता बबनराव लोनीकर ने एक सभा के दौरान कहा

◆ उनके इस बयान की सीएम देवेंद्र फडणवीस ने भी आलोचना की है

BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar | #BabanraoLonikar #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/UO6zoYx24t

— News24 (@news24tvchannel) June 26, 2025

‘You Have Clothes, Shoes, Mobiles Because of Us’: BJP MLA Babanrao Lonikar’s Remark 

The video of Lonikar’s speech quickly went viral on social media, drawing sharp criticism not just from the public but also from within his own party. Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was quick to react, stating that such comments do not reflect the ideology or values of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Fadnavis reiterated that public welfare is a collective result of democracy, governance, and citizens’ hard work, and leaders should remain grounded and respectful.

Political analysts view Lonikar’s comment as a sign of growing disconnect between certain elected representatives and the electorate, especially at a time when inflation and unemployment are key concerns in rural areas. Opposition leaders from the Congress and NCP (Sharad Pawar) slammed the comment, calling it “arrogant and insulting.”

Statement Has Reignited Debates 

The statement has reignited debates about accountability in public life and the responsibilities of elected leaders. Many citizens took to social media to post counterarguments, asserting their right to dignity and criticizing any suggestion that basic necessities are a “gift” from politicians.

While Lonikar has not yet issued a formal apology, sources say BJP leadership has informally advised its members to exercise caution in public speeches. The party is also expected to review the incident internally, especially given the sensitive political climate ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections in 2024.