Uddhav Thackeray Accuses CM Shinde of Insensitivity in Badlapur Protest

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray criticized Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde for his reaction to the Badlapur protests, which erupted over the alleged sexual assault of two minor girls. Thackeray refuted claims that the protests were politically motivated, asserting they aimed to highlight the need for women's security.

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday lambasted Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, accusing him of insensitivity regarding the Badlapur protest triggered by the alleged sexual assault of two minor girls. Thackeray disputed CM Shinde's claims that the protest was politically orchestrated, labeling such allegations as either abnormal or protective of the culprits involved.

Thackeray clarified that the bandh called by the opposition bloc Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) on August 24 aims to raise awareness about women's safety and awaken the government to prioritize it. He emphasized that the protest reflects public outrage rather than political maneuvering, unlike the much-publicized Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin Yojana, which he alleged is motivated by upcoming assembly elections.

An extensive demonstration in Badlapur town saw thousands of people taking to the streets and railway tracks, leading to stone-pelting incidents that injured at least 25 police personnel. Police detained 72 individuals in connection with the violence. Accusing the government of insensitivity for delaying FIR registration, Thackeray questioned CM Shinde's absence during the protests.

(With inputs from agencies.)