Congress Legislature Party Leader in Maharashtra, Vijay Wadettiwar, expressed positivity towards the alliance between Shiv Sena’s Uddhav Thackeray and MNS president Raj Thackeray, citing family reunions as a good sign. However, he clarified that the Congress would not form a political alliance with the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). Wadettiwar mentioned that the Congress is open to contesting the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections alongside Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar’s parties, excluding the MNS.
Launching a scathing attack on the BJP-led MahaYuti government, Wadettiwar accused them of systematically favoring Gujarat’s interests over Mumbai. He alleged a gradual “encroachment” on Maharashtra and its capital city. Wadettiwar emphasized the importance of protecting Mumbai from external influences and safeguarding the city’s interests.
Highlighting the significance of unity, Wadettiwar stressed the necessity of preserving Marathi identity, pride, and culture. He explained the complexities within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and how decisions in local body elections differ from national or state-level politics. Wadettiwar clarified that independent participation by MVA constituents in civic polls should not be misconstrued as a division within the MVA or the INDIA bloc.
Reaffirming the Congress’s commitment to constitutional values and social justice, Wadettiwar assured that the party would steer clear of communal or religious politics. He urged voters to back the Congress in the upcoming elections to ensure fair and inclusive progress.
