Maha CM criticises Uddhav Thackeray

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday launched a scathing attack on former chief minister and Shiv Sena ((UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray over his changing stance, comparing him to a chameleon.

Addressing a rally organised in support of Mahayuti candidate Sandipan Bhumre from the Aurangabad Lok Sabha constituency, he said, "Uddhav Thackeray was singing praises of Prime Minister Narendra Modi when his party was in alliance with BJP. But now, it is as if Maharashtra has witnessed a lizard changing colour swiftly, with stones being hurled at PM Modi."

"Maharashtra has observed a significant political metamorphosis, reminiscent of a lizard swiftly changing its hues," he remarked while denouncing opportunistic nature of Thackeray.

Acknowledging past electoral discrepancies, the Chief Minister expressed optimism about current electoral landscape.

"Despite past disruptions, I firmly believe that upcoming election will usher in a victory for unity and progress," he stated while underscoring importance of ongoing development under the leadership of PM Modi.

Reflecting on broader socio-political implications, Shinde highlighted significance of inclusive governance of the Modi government.

"PM Modi's initiatives such as providing free ration to 80 crore impoverished individuals, transcend religious boundaries," he asserted while urging for a departure from divisive rhetoric and a focus on constructive dialogue.

In response to personal attacks, Shinde reaffirmed his commitment to addressing public concerns through diligent governance.

"The ballot box, not vitriol, shall be arbiter of our political landscape," he proclaimed, calling upon voters to exercise their franchise wisely.

While condemning recent acts of discrimination against dalit individuals by certain political figures, Shinde said, "It is an insult to dalits that Sanjay Raut, Chandrakant Khaire, and Vinod Bankar threw Dalit brothers down from the podium."

He accused the Congress party of using dalits and Muslims only as a vote bank.

"The exploitation of marginalised communities for political gain is unacceptable," declared Shinde, urging voters to reject divisive tactics and embrace inclusivity.