Eknath Shinde Slams Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde launched a sharp attack on the Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray, accusing the party of extending remote support to protests without participating in them.

Shinde made these remarks while speaking to reporters in Mumbai on Tuesday. He referred to the party's backing for activist Sonam Wangchuk's protest at Delhi's Jantar Mantar, saying that the UBT faction preferred to support agitations from home rather than lead them on the ground.

The Deputy Chief Minister alleged that the opposition was attempting to create instability by supporting every protest against the government. He criticised comparisons of India with countries such as Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Nepal, saying that the Narendra Modi-led government had strengthened the country's economy and lifted millions out of poverty through welfare schemes.

Shinde also defended the NDA, describing it as an ideological alliance rather than one formed for political power. He accused Uddhav Thackeray of abandoning Bal Thackeray's Hindutva ideology by aligning with parties that had criticised Hindutva icons.

The construction of the Ram Temple and the abrogation of Article 370 were cited by Shinde as examples of the Modi government fulfilling long-standing aspirations associated with Bal Thackeray's vision. He highlighted the significance of these achievements in the context of Hindutva ideology.

Regarding the merger claim made by six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs, Shinde dismissed the party's legal objections. He said that the MPs had followed the constitutional process before approaching the Lok Sabha Speaker and that the letter issued by the UBT leadership carried no significance.

In other news, Shinde mentioned that the Maharashtra Police had foiled the conspiracy in the TET paper leak case before the examination was conducted and arrested the accused. He reiterated the government's commitment to taking strict action against those involved in examination malpractices.

Shinde also instructed Thane civic authorities to remove all illegal banners without exception and directed officials to take strict action against violators. He responded to speculation over his recent meeting with NCP veteran Sharad Pawar, saying that constitutional office-bearers meet several people for administrative work and every meeting should not be viewed through a political lens.

The comments made by Shinde reflect the ongoing political tensions in Maharashtra. The state has witnessed a series of protests and political developments in recent times, with the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Eknath Shinde faction being at the centre of these developments.

The Maharashtra government's commitment to taking strict action against examination malpractices and removing illegal banners is significant in the context of maintaining law and order in the state. The government's efforts to boost farmer exports globally through the development of an international-standard agricultural market at Dapchari in Palghar are also noteworthy.

In conclusion, the remarks made by Eknath Shinde highlight the political dynamics in Maharashtra and the ongoing tensions between the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Eknath Shinde faction. The state government's initiatives to maintain law and order and promote economic development are significant in the context of Maharashtra's overall growth and development.