Raj Thackeray Voices Concern Over KDMC Developments in Joint Appearance with Uddhav
In a significant political event in Mumbai, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray expressed being deeply disturbed by the ongoing developments in the Kalyan-Dombivli Municipal Corporation (KDMC). He shared the stage with Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, marking their first joint appearance since the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, which they contested together but lost.
Joint Appearance Amidst Political Tensions
The event, held at Shanmukhanand Hall in Sion, was organized to commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. This joint address came at a time when there was widespread speculation about differences between Raj and Uddhav, particularly after MNS corporators extended support to the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena in the KDMC. Their unified presence helped quell rumors of friction, emphasizing a shared concern over the state of politics in Maharashtra.
Raj Thackeray did not mince words, describing the political maneuvers in Kalyan-Dombivli and other parts of the state as disgusting. He revealed that discussions with Uddhav Thackeray and Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut had left him feeling a chill down his spine. What is going on, and where are we taking all this? he questioned, highlighting his distress over the current political climate.
Critique of Worsening Political Situation
Elaborating on his concerns, Raj Thackeray painted a grim picture of the political landscape in Maharashtra and across India. He lamented that the situation had deteriorated sharply, comparing it to a slave market where political allegiances are auctioned off. Today, the political situation in Maharashtra and the country is very bad, he stated, adding that Bal Thackeray would have been deeply pained to witness such developments.
He emphasized that while flexibility might be necessary in politics, as Bal Thackeray had demonstrated at times, it should never be for personal gain or selfish motives. Earlier in the day, in a message marking Bal Thackeray's birth centenary, Raj had touched upon this need for adaptability, a remark widely interpreted as a reference to the KDMC episode.
Uddhav Thackeray's Response and Future Plans
Following Raj's address, Uddhav Thackeray took the stage, acknowledging that betrayal is not new in Maharashtra's history. He praised Shiv Sainiks for their resilience in the recent BMC polls, despite the electoral setback. You fought the battle of Mumbai well, he said, announcing plans to revitalize the party by visiting shakhas across Mumbai and touring the state soon.
Without directly naming Prime Minister Narendra Modi or Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Uddhav criticized what he termed as two businessmen using others to undermine regional parties. He also took an indirect swipe at Eknath Shinde, questioning the removal of Shivaji's saffron flag from Mumbai's civic headquarters and what it had achieved.
This event underscored the ongoing political dynamics in Maharashtra, with both leaders uniting to voice their concerns while hinting at future strategies to counter the challenges posed by rival factions.
