02 September,2023 04:15 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Uddhav Thackeray
In an address during an official meeting in Mumbai, Shiv Sena (UBT) party chief Uddhav Thackeray addressed a range of crucial topics, emphasizing the need for unity, talking about pressing issues and advocating for the welfare of the public. Thackeray, on Saturday, began his address by congratulating the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) scientists on the successful launch of India's solar mission, lauding their six-decade legacy. He commended the organisation for its vital role in advancing scientific knowledge.
The discourse of his speech then shifted to the recent Indian National Development Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) alliance meeting held in Mumbai where he underscored the importance of the Opposition bloc presenting a clear national agenda for the country. He emphasized the need for peaceful resolution of seat-sharing matters within states.
Thackeray expressed his belief that political differences could be bridged for the greater good. He cited instances of rival parties coming together within the INDIA alliance, such as the Left and Trinamool Congress in West Bengal and the Congress and CPI(M) in Kerala. He also welcomed collaborative efforts in Jammu and Kashmir, where regional parties united.
Uddhav Thackeray in his speech also spoke about the Jalna unrest and the use of lathi-charge on the protestors. He confirmed that he would be visiting the region and meeting with the affected protestors. He also took a swipe at the incumbent government calling them âOne full, two halves' because Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has two deputies - Ajit Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis. "The government tortured the public in Jalna yesterday. The ministers had time to address the press over INDIA's meeting but did not have time to sit and hold talks with the protestors," he said.
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The Shiv Sena (UBT) Chief urged the opposition to engage in open dialogue if faced with challenges akin to "dictatorship." He reiterated that all parties within the alliance should freely discuss and express their opinions. He criticized the Union government for scheduling a special parliamentary session from September 18 to 22, coinciding with the Ganesh festival, a significant celebration in Maharashtra. He expressed concerns about the potential disruption to the festive atmosphere in the state.
The discussion then touched upon various national issues, including inflation, the rising cost of essential commodities, and the need to address people's concerns. Thackeray urged political leaders to connect with farmers, women, and the public to discuss government schemes and initiatives. He called for investigative journalism to scrutinize programs like the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and expressed the importance of transparency in governance.
Thackeray concluded by recalling historical events and highlighting the significance of the Shiv Sena's loyalty-based foundation. He called for unity among political parties, emphasizing that the BJP does not have a monopoly on representing Hindus and reminding the audience of the party's commitment to inclusivity. In closing, he praised the resilience and sacrifice of frontline workers during the COVID-19 pandemic and called for continued efforts to address pressing issues and serve the people's interests.