As the Opposition continues to question Operation Sindoor and the latest tariffs imposed on India by US President Donald Trump, the BJP-led Maharashtra government plans to use the upcoming Ganesh festival to explain its side to people and encourage the use of Indian made products. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has urged public Ganpati mandals to showcase India’s military success in Operation Sindoor and promote the use of Swadeshi goods during the festival celebrations that commence on July 7.

The Opposition has been taking a dig at the Central government, accusing it of hiding facts about Operation Sindoor, and also slamming it over the high tariffs imposed by the US on India for doing business with Russia. Despite the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi often citing good relations with the US, the high taxes have become a talking point and ammunition for the Opposition. Meanwhile, Modi has called for an increase in the use of Swadeshi products as a solution to the US move.

Taking a cue from this development, Fadnavis has urged the Ganpati mandals to explain India’s stand and give a message to citizens through ‘Operation Sindoor’ and ‘Swadeshi’ themes during the festival. The suggestion was given during the law and order review meeting held on Wednesday at Sahyadri Guest House at Malabar Hill. Besides, Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar and senior police and BMC officials were present for the meeting, along with members of the Ganesh festival celebration committees. Fadnavis, who also heads the home department, urged organisers to follow the rules and instructions from the police to ensure a peaceful celebration of the festival.