Maharashtra CM Shinde Criticizes Uddhav Thackeray's Marginalization of Raj Thackeray

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde criticized Uddhav Thackeray for sidelining Raj Thackeray, asserting that Balasaheb Thackeray never intended for Raj to leave Shiv Sena. Shinde highlighted Raj's dedication to the party despite his removal. The discussion included upcoming elections and Raj's support for the current BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP alliance.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday criticized Uddhav Thackeray for sidelining Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray, arguing that Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray never wanted Raj to leave the party. In an exclusive interview with ANI, Shinde praised Raj Thackeray's dedication to the Shiv Sena.

During his speech, Shinde recalled how Uddhav Thackeray once asked when 'Laadla bhai' would join, a term referring to Raj Thackeray. Shinde questioned Uddhav's motives behind sidelining Raj who was actively involved in the 1995 election campaigns and was a close aide of Balasaheb Thackeray. He emphasized that Raj was willing to strengthen the Shiv Sena despite being removed.

Shinde further elaborated on how Uddhav orchestrated Raj's removal by making Uddhav the head of the party—an action contrary to Balasaheb's wishes. When asked about Raj's current political associations, Shinde mentioned that Raj had offered 'unconditional' support to the BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP alliance for the Lok Sabha elections.

Regarding the upcoming Maharashtra Legislative Assembly elections, Shinde stated that the focus is on forming the Mahayuti government rather than deciding the next Chief Minister. The Mahayuti, comprising BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and Ajit Pawar's NCP faction, currently governs the state.

(With inputs from agencies.)