Uddhav Thackeray Mocks Shinde's Hotel Strategy, Accuses BJP of Betrayal in Mumbai
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray launched a sharp attack on Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde this Saturday. He ridiculed Shinde's decision to move newly elected corporators to a luxury 5-star hotel. Thackeray claimed this move exposes Shinde's deep fear of the BJP's influence.
Defectors and the Mayor's Post
Speaking firmly at his residence, Matoshree, Thackeray pointed out a critical vulnerability. He stated that many corporators who won from the Shinde faction are actually former Shiv Sena (UBT) members who switched sides. "People who have defected once can defect again," Thackeray warned. He suggested the BJP might lure these individuals back to secure the crucial Mayor's position for Mumbai.
"There is a possibility that everyone is in contact with everyone," he added, hinting at ongoing political negotiations behind the scenes.
A 'Tarnished' Victory and 'Anaconda' Politics
Thackeray framed the recent election results in a unique light. "Our defeat is bright, their victory is tarnished," he declared. He accused the BJP of having a 'use and throw' mentality, comparing the party to anacondas that consume their allies.
"The reason I am calling them anacondas is that the BJP's mentality is to use and throw away," Thackeray explained. He implied that even Shinde's loyalists might face elimination by the BJP in the future.
Challenging BJP's Ground Reality
The Sena (UBT) chief struck a defiant note against the BJP's perceived strength. He argued the BJP exists powerfully on paper but lacks genuine grassroots support. "They are a party on paper but not on the ground," Thackeray asserted. He claimed this weakness forced the BJP to break other parties and misuse the system instead of winning fairly.
Thackeray also addressed the Marathi community's sentiment. He accused the BJP of winning the Mumbai polls through betrayal and stated the 'Marathi manoos' would not forgive this act. "BJP wants to mortgage Mumbai," he charged.
Hope for a Shiv Sena (UBT) Mayor
Despite the challenges, Uddhav Thackeray expressed a clear ambition. He called it a dream to see a Shiv Sena (UBT) mayor elected in Mumbai. "God willing, it will happen," he said with resolve. He also thanked Mumbaikars for their support in the elections, acknowledging the blessings received.
Awaiting the Supreme Court Verdict
Thackeray highlighted an upcoming legal battle with significant stakes. The Supreme Court is expected to deliver a verdict in January on the rightful use of the Shiv Sena party name and symbol. Thackeray predicted that if the court rules constitutionally, the Shinde faction could lose these assets and effectively "cease to exist."
This statement sets the stage for a tense political and legal showdown in Maharashtra early next year.