Shiv Sena Chief Leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde criticized the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena for their ‘Ram Raksha’ agitation. He accused them of previously making derogatory remarks about Ram devotees, now conveniently chanting the name of Lord Ram and Hindutva. Shinde highlighted that the UBT faction has allied with political forces historically opposed to Hindutva and the core ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray.
Uddhav Thackeray led a Ram Raksha protest against the Ayodhya temple theft in Nagpur, emphasizing the duty of true devotees to protect Ram. Shinde emphasized that the UBT has strayed from the path of true Hindutva by aligning with such opposing elements. He stressed that Hindutva is not a garment that can be worn at convenience, challenging the UBT leadership regarding their commitment to the ‘Ram Raksha’ movement.
Shinde drew a parallel with the Ramayana, noting Lord Ram’s commitment to his father’s promise and criticizing those who abandoned their father’s principles. He accused the UBT of making a ‘Self-Raksha’ attempt to save their party rather than genuinely focusing on ‘Ram Raksha’. Shinde also highlighted the skepticism of opposition leaders towards the Ram Mandir construction date in the past.
