Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has reiterated his stance regarding the backlash faced over the Mumbai-Pune Expressway’s Missing Link project. On 10 July 2026, he proposed alternative terminology for his earlier remarks that had drawn criticism, specifically using the phrase “hired fools” instead of “bhade ke tattu,” which means “rent a fool.” This was in response to the outrage regarding language deemed inappropriate for someone in his position. Fadnavis stated that many had found his comments offensive, leading him to reconsider his choice of words.

The Chief Minister emphasised that the ongoing criticism surrounding the Missing Link project was intended to tarnish the reputation of Maharashtra. He expressed a willingness to endure personal attacks but made it clear he would not accept attempts to damage the state’s image through what he described as misinformation about this significant infrastructure development.

Opposition’s Concerns Over Safety

Opposition parties have raised concerns regarding the safety of the Missing Link project, especially after a recent landslide near the area that disrupted traffic. They have called for an audit of the project to ensure public safety. Fadnavis defended the project vehemently, rejecting any claims that it is unsafe and accusing opposition parties of disseminating falsehoods via hired trolls on social media platforms.

In a heated exchange during an Assembly debate, Fadnavis articulated that while he has developed a thick skin to withstand personal criticism, he would not tolerate efforts to defame Maharashtra. He has also gone on record stating that individuals propagating misinformation about the project would face consequences.

During the debate, Fadnavis referred to critics as “hired stooges,” alleging that some were being compensated for their negative commentary aimed at discrediting the vital infrastructure project. This assertion has drawn further ire from opposition leaders, who argue that such language undermines the dignity of the office he occupies.

Reactions from Opposition Leaders

Maharashtra Congress President Harshwardhan Sapkal has publicly responded to Fadnavis’s statements, asserting that threatening dissenters is unbecoming of a Chief Minister. He stressed that citizens and the opposition have a legitimate right to question the utilisation of public funds, especially when severe allegations of corruption are involved.

Sapkal also condemned the use of derogatory language, highlighting that terms like “dogs” and “hired stooges” reflect poorly on a state with a reputation for civilised political discourse. His comments came following Congress’s exposure of alleged irregularities related to the Missing Link project, which the opposition claims warranted scrutiny.

The Missing Link, a 13.3-km stretch opened to traffic on 1 May 2026, bypasses a challenging section of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and is expected to significantly reduce travel time between the two cities. Fadnavis has hailed it as a landmark achievement in engineering, attributing its completion to the Mahayuti government, but the controversies surrounding it continue to polarise opinion within the state.

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