Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has launched a scathing attack on Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, asserting that the UBT faction abandoned the path of Hindutva a long time ago. Shinde emphasized that Hindutva isn't a garment like a T-shirt that can be worn or discarded based on political convenience. This sharp criticism comes in response to the 'Ram Raksha' movement initiated by Uddhav Thackeray's faction across Maharashtra. Shinde's remarks highlight the deepening ideological rift between the two factions of the Shiv Sena, particularly regarding their commitment to the principles laid down by Balasaheb Thackeray.
The Ram Raksha Movement and Nagpur Rally
The Shiv Sena (UBT) recently launched the 'Ram Raksha' movement to protest against alleged financial irregularities and theft in the offerings and donations made to the Ayodhya Ram Temple. As part of this campaign, Uddhav Thackeray visited a Ram temple in Nagpur on Saturday to offer prayers and subsequently addressed a public gathering. During his speech, Thackeray targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Eknath Shinde-led government, raising concerns over the management of temple funds. However, Shinde dismissed these efforts as a political gimmick, suggesting that the UBT faction is only turning to Lord Ram now because they see their political influence waning.
Shinde's Rhyming Taunt and Ideological Critique
" He further drew a comparison between the sacrifices of Lord Ram and Uddhav Thackeray's actions, while shinde noted that while Lord Ram went into exile for 14 years to honor his father's word, Uddhav Thackeray abandoned his father's legacy and principles. He remarked that those who don't belong to Ram can't be of any use to the people. Shinde questioned the sincerity of the UBT faction's sudden devotion, pointing out that they're now aligned with parties and leaders who previously made derogatory remarks about Ram devotees.
Alliances and National Progress
The Deputy Chief Minister suggested that instead of challenging leaders like Devendra Fadnavis, Uddhav Thackeray should invite his current allies, including Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Mamata Banerjee, and Akhilesh Yadav, to join his movement, while shinde argued that by forming an alliance with the Congress, Thackeray had effectively surrendered the ideology of Hindutva. He contrasted this with the work of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who he credited with the construction of the Ram Temple and leading the nation toward significant milestones, while shinde mentioned achievements such as the development of the Hydrogen train and the successful launch of the Vikram rocket, while criticizing Rahul Gandhi for allegedly defaming the Prime Minister during his trips abroad.
Strengthening the NDA and Development Funds
Shinde also spoke about the growing strength of the NDA, noting that his faction has grown from 40 MLAs to more than 56 MLAs. He announced that 6 Members of Parliament have officially joined his side, reinforcing the trust people have in PM Modi's leadership. Addressing allegations that these MPs were brought in through financial inducements, Shinde clarified that while they provide funds, it's strictly for development purposes to benefit the public. He used a metaphor to describe the two factions, calling Uddhav's group "Lena Bank" (Taking Bank) and his own "Dena Bank" (Giving Bank), asserting that his government is focused on contribution rather than extraction. He concluded by stating that the people of Maharashtra are wise enough to see through political deceptions and recognize those who have stayed true to Balasaheb's vision.