Uddhav Thackeray advocates for strong coalition govt, not single-party rule

Uddhav Thackeray/Sameer Markande

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray expressed the view that the nation requires a robust government, but not one dominated by a single political party with an overwhelming majority. Addressing attendees at his party's traditional Dussehra rally, hosted at Shivaji Park in Mumbai, Thackeray emphasised the importance of stability in the "ruling chair" for the country's strength.

Thackeray advocated for a "mili-juli sarkar," invoking examples of governments led by figures like Manmohan Singh, PV Narasimha Rao, and Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He lauded the concept of a strong government but clarified that this should not be solely representative of a single political entity wielding brute authority.

In Photos: Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde addresses Dussehra rally at Azad Maidan

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In a pointed reference to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), his former political ally turned adversary, Thackeray underscored that the BJP and its predecessor, the Jana Sangh, had played no role in various historical struggles, including those related to India's independence, the Marathwada liberation movement, or the Samyukta (united) Maharashtra movement.

Additionally, Thackeray voiced his concern over alleged attempts to "appropriate" the Shiv Sena, criticizing the faction led by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. In a stern message to his political rivals, Thackeray warned that should his party come to power, those who cause harassment would face consequences, stating, "After we come to power, we will hang upside down those who are harassing us."

Thackeray, during his speech, while criticising the Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Sena and BJP said that he will burn down their Lanka made out of 'khoka' (money) just like Lord Hanuman burnt down Ravana's Lanaka. He said he has blazing torches, referring to the party workers. He further added that took a jab at Rahul Narwekar as well over the alleged delay in making a decision over disqualification pleas filed by Uddhav Thackeray against the Shinde-led rebel MLAs.

Speaking about the ritualistic burning of effigy, he further noted, "After the speeches, we will burn effigy of 'Khokasur'."

He also took a shot at Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP's brand of Hindutva. He said his Hindutva politics, unlike that of BJP, is not divisive. He added that those not believing in family system should not be commenting on dynasty politics. "I am proud that I am Balasaheb Thackeray's son. Family system is foundation of Hindu culture. Those who do not believe in the system should not be criticising others," he said.

He further addressed multiple issues including Maratha Quota violence and urged youths to not die by suicide over quota issue