Mumbai – In a fervent address at the Shiv Sena's statewide Vajra Nirdhar Parishad held at the Shivaji Maharaj Temple Hall in Dadar, party chief Uddhav Thackeray urged the Mahavikas Aghadi coalition to promptly announce its candidate for the Chief Minister position. Thackeray's remarks come amid rising political tensions and his ongoing criticisms of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, whom he labeled as "two thugs from Delhi" attempting to impose their will on Maharashtra.
Thackeray asserted that Maharashtra is a self-respecting state that deserves leadership reflective of its dignity. "Our future generations should live with self-respect," he stated, rejecting any notion of succumbing to what he described as "slavery" imposed by the central government. He challenged Devendra Fadnavis, former Chief Minister and leader of the BJP in Maharashtra, emphasizing that he had not declared his intent to reclaim the Chief Minister's office. The conference, which aimed to promote democracy, the constitution, and the values of Maharashtrian culture, saw Thackeray take a strong stance against the BJP and the current state of governance.
He stated, "There has never been a Gujarati and Marathi dispute in Maharashtra, but the current leadership is creating divisions." He accused the ruling party of exploiting the state's legacy, claiming that, "Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj fought for Swarajya, but today, two thugs are robbing Maharaj's Maharashtra." Thackeray also expressed skepticism over the government's effectiveness, suggesting that despite a lack of faith in its operations, the public continues to be swayed by government advertisements promoting a positive image.
"Those who propagate a fake narrative are simply showcasing this failed government through advertising," he remarked. Reiterating his call for clarity in leadership, Thackeray declared his support for any candidate nominated by the Congress and NCP, stating, "If they announce anyone's name, I will support that name as a witness of all of you." He urged the coalition to recognize the urgency of the situation, emphasizing that the people of Maharashtra are eager for decisive leadership. As political dynamics shift in Maharashtra, Thackeray’s emphatic plea for a Chief Minister candidate highlights the growing discontent with the current political landscape and the pressing need for unity within the Mahavikas Aghadi coalition.