Fadnavis Responds to Uddhav's Barb
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday dismissed Uddhav Thackeray's recent 'Operation Devendra' remark with a light-hearted quip, saying he does not have wings. The comment came after the Shiv Sena (UBT) chief accused the BJP of orchestrating a political conspiracy against him, dubbing it 'Operation Devendra'.
Speaking to reporters in Mumbai, Fadnavis laughed off the allegation, stating, 'I don't have wings, so how can there be an operation named after me? This is just the frustration of the opposition.' He added that the Mahayuti government is focused on development and has no time for such distractions.
Background of the Remark
Uddhav Thackeray had earlier claimed that the BJP was running a secret operation to destabilize his party, coining the term 'Operation Devendra' to refer to what he alleged was a conspiracy led by Fadnavis. The former chief minister made these remarks during a party meeting in Thane, accusing the BJP of using state machinery to target opposition leaders.
Fadnavis, however, refuted the allegations, calling them baseless. 'The opposition is resorting to such statements because they have lost public support. People have rejected their politics of lies,' he said.
Political Reactions
The exchange has sparked a war of words between the two parties. Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders rallied behind Thackeray, insisting that the BJP's tactics are well-known. Meanwhile, BJP leaders defended Fadnavis, accusing the opposition of making frivolous claims to divert attention from internal issues.
Political analysts note that such banter is common in Maharashtra's charged political environment, especially with elections approaching. The Mahayuti alliance, led by the BJP, is seeking to consolidate its position, while the opposition is trying to regain lost ground.
Focus on Governance
Fadnavis emphasized that his government's priority is delivering on promises made to the people. 'We are working on infrastructure, employment, and welfare schemes. The opposition can keep making jokes, but we will keep working,' he said.
The CM also highlighted recent achievements, including the completion of major road projects and increased investment in the state. He urged the opposition to join in constructive debates rather than resorting to personal attacks.
