Uddhav Thackeray, the Shiv Sena-UBT Chief, has accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) of attempting to “finish off” his party and take control of Mumbai. He emphasized the significance of the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections as a battle for the city’s essence, suggesting that the BJP leadership is aiming to dominate the state. Thackeray defended his alliance with Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) as essential for the welfare of Marathi people.
Thackeray expressed disappointment towards party members who have defected, stating that those they supported are now betraying them. He asserted that Mumbai, a city earned through sacrifices, cannot be taken away from them. Thackeray criticized the BJP for engaging in transactional politics and accused them of exploiting the Shiv Sena for their benefit.
Addressing the strategic alliance with the MNS, Thackeray acknowledged the challenges of seat-sharing in alliances, noting that compromises are necessary. He urged unity within the Shiv Sena-UBT, cautioning against internal conflicts while facing external threats. Thackeray appealed to party workers to remain loyal and emphasized his responsibility in candidate selection for the BMC polls.
Thackeray unveiled a booklet showcasing the Shiv Sena’s pandemic-related public service efforts and encouraged party members to distribute it to voters. He highlighted the party’s achievements in governing the BMC and the Maha Vikas Aghadi government in the state.
