Uddhav Thackeray Apologizes in Bhandup: Admits Mistake in Choosing Candidates After Rebellion

In the wake of the second major split within the Shiv Sena in the last four years, Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray initiated a significant outreach program in the North East Mumbai Lok Sabha constituency on Sunday. During his visit, he spent the evening in Bhandup, where he met with veteran Shiv Sainiks and dedicated party workers who have remained loyal through the political turmoil. This visit was marked by a moment of profound accountability as Thackeray openly apologized to his supporters for the political betrayals that have shaken the foundation of the organization, while he stated that wherever trust has been broken, he feels the need to seek forgiveness from the people.

The Emotional Apology in Bhandup

Addressing the gathering in Bhandup, Uddhav Thackeray took personal responsibility for the actions of the rebel leaders. He told the assembled workers that he doesn't view them merely as party members but as ignited torches (Mashals) that carry the spirit of the movement. In a candid admission, Thackeray said, "You followed my orders, shed your blood, and worked tirelessly for the candidate and the Mashal symbol to ensure their victory. However, I was the one who chose that candidate. " He further pledged that he would visit every location where such betrayal has occurred to personally apologize to the voters who were misled by the candidates he had selected.

Gratitude and the Symbol of the Mashal

" He remarked that their betrayal had inadvertently served to reignite the passion of the true Shiv Sainiks. He emphasized that the Mashal has been lit once again with a new sense of purpose. He vowed to fulfill his promises to the electorate and declared that his journey to reclaim the party's honor would begin from the very places where the betrayal took place. He reiterated that the strength of the party lies in its workers who didn't abandon the cause despite the allure of power or pressure.

Scathing Attack on the BJP

The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader launched a fierce attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), accusing it of a long-term conspiracy to weaken and eventually eliminate the Shiv Sena. He noted that the party has been under attack for several years and that the workers have been both witnesses and participants in this struggle, while thackeray described the BJP as a party that has grown by "nurturing the children of others," referring to its practice of taking in leaders from other parties. " He directly blamed the BJP for the current crisis, labeling their actions as a political crime.

Comparison with Congress and the Outsider's Claim

Thackeray drew a sharp distinction between the BJP and the Congress. He mentioned that while the Shiv Sena had a long-standing rivalry with the Congress that saw many political careers end, the Congress never attempted to dismantle the Shiv Sena as an institution. He asserted that the BJP's current efforts are far more destructive, while Also, he reacted strongly to comments made by an "outsider" in Solapur who claimed there is now only one Shiv Sena. Thackeray dismissed this, stating that the Shiv Sena belongs to Balasaheb Thackeray and no outsider can determine its leadership. He mocked the idea that anyone could be appointed as a president, saying that while a "Somya Gomya" might lead other parties, the Shiv Sena's head is chosen by the hearts of its workers. He concluded by questioning the BJP's own foundation, asking if it has any real roots or if it's merely built on the broken pieces of other organizations, while asserting that he remains protected by the blessings of Goddess Jagdamba and the common people.