Opposition leaders, including Shiv Sena-UBT members, have strongly criticized Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, labeling him a “traitor” and “fugitive.” This backlash follows Shinde’s accusations against Shiv Sena-UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray regarding alleged embezzlement at Mumbai’s Siddhivinayak Temple and his defense of the Uttar Pradesh government’s handling of the Ram Temple issue.
Shiv Sena-UBT MP Arvind Sawant, referring to Uddhav Thackeray as a devotee of Lord Ram, questioned Shinde’s sudden display of Hindutva sentiments after being in power with Thackeray for two and a half years. Sawant criticized Shinde for leaving due to fear of the ED, calling him a coward and a traitor.
Sanjay Raut, another Shiv Sena-UBT MP, compared the Siddhivinayak Temple Trust to the Ram Temple Trust, alleging corruption within the former. He highlighted the Trust’s charitable activities and accused Shinde of being upset because they prevented misappropriation of funds.
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Yashwant Killedar called for a thorough investigation into the alleged mismanagement at the temple. He raised concerns over the misuse of funds sanctioned for temple beautification during Shinde’s tenure and criticized the lack of accountability within the system.
NCP-SP leader Naseem Siddiqui questioned Shinde’s failure to initiate an inquiry during his tenure as Chief Minister and suggested a political motive behind his recent statements. Siddiqui emphasized the importance of maintaining the temple’s sanctity while addressing any irregularities through a fair investigation.
Shiv Sena spokesperson Krishna Hegde deemed the allegations made by the Deputy CM as serious and called for a proper investigation into the Siddhivinayak Temple issue, advocating for the arrest of those found guilty.
