Uddhav Thackeray, former Chief Minister of Maharashtra and leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), took a veiled jibe at the BJP on Monday, defending his interactions with socialist parties. He pointed out that if the BJP can shower flowers on Pakistani cricketers at the Narendra Modi stadium, he can engage with socialist groups.
Addressing a gathering of 21 socialist parties, Thackeray acknowledged that past disagreements with socialist parties were mainly ideological. These differences arose due to varying political perspectives and strategies between his party and the socialists. However, he asserted that such disparities can be reconciled for the greater cause of democracy.
Thackeray also noted that his father, Bal Thackeray, had collaborated with socialist leaders in the pursuit of a united Maharashtra, despite notable differences.
Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde criticized Thackeray for aligning with socialist ideologies, labeling it a ‘sin.’ He held Thackeray responsible for straying from the party’s founding principles. Thackeray responded by emphasizing that ideological differences, despite shared objectives, can be resolved through dialogue.
He cited the example of George Fernandes, who challenged and defeated Mumbai’s industrialist-backed strongman, SK Patil, in the 1960s. As a trade union leader, Fernandes garnered trust and confidence among the public, essential for unseating Patil.
Thackeray expressed that unity can bring about positive change in the present political landscape, emphasizing the importance of strong party cadres.
He reminisced about how, despite their differences, Shiv Sena and socialist parties came together for issues like Samyukta Maharashtra. Thackeray recalled their joint efforts during the movement against the Emergency, despite divergent viewpoints.
In a scathing critique of the BJP, Thackeray accused the party of seeking growth by undermining others. He alleged that the BJP is currently unwilling to accept new members and criticized the party’s role in breaking successful political alliances. Thackeray concluded by highlighting the need for unity, emphasizing the importance of supporting democracy. He stressed that true friendship isn’t based on material gain. In response to Shinde’s criticism, Thackeray accused the Jan Sangh, an earlier incarnation of the BJP, of splitting the Janata Party over the issue of dual membership. Thackeray’s statements were made in the context of recent political developments and alliances in Maharashtra.
Shinde, speaking in Thane, lambasted Thackeray for aligning with Congress and socialist groups, asserting that even Balasaheb Thackeray would not condone such actions. He accused Thackeray of committing a sin by partnering with socialists who had previously insulted and opposed Balasaheb Thackeray during his lifetime.