Why is Congress Avoiding the Uddhav-Raj Thackeray Rally Against Hindi Imposition?
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Synopsis
In a strategic move ahead of local elections, Congress distances itself from the Uddhav-Raj Thackeray rally. The party emphasizes its stance against Hindi imposition while safeguarding its non-Marathi voter base. What implications does this have for Maharashtra's political landscape? Read on for insights.
Key Takeaways
- Congress abstains from rally to safeguard voter base.
- Opposes Hindi imposition while advocating for Marathi.
- Focus on strengthening party organization ahead of elections.
- Concerns about being overshadowed by Thackeray factions.
- Strategic decisions reflect a nuanced political approach.
Mumbai, July 4 (NationPress) The Congress party has opted to refrain from participating in the upcoming 'victory rally' organized by the estranged brothers, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, which is set for Saturday. This rally is intended to commend the state government's decision to retract its two resolutions regarding the introduction of Hindi alongside Marathi and English for Classes 1 to 5.
A significant faction within the Maharashtra Congress has voiced strong opposition to the party's involvement in the rally. Although the party stands against the imposition of Hindi, they wish to maintain their non-Marathi vote bank, particularly with the forthcoming BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation elections on the horizon.
The party has consciously decided against attending the event featuring the Thackeray brothers.
“We have consistently expressed our disapproval of the BJP government’s initiative to enforce Hindi. Our position was clear long before other parties took a stand. We advocate for Marathi while respecting all languages. I received the invitation for Saturday's event only on Friday, and my travel commitments are unchangeable,” stated Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal.
Sapkal has firmly dismissed the Narendra Jadhav committee established by the Maharashtra government to report on the three-language formula in primary education.
“We oppose this policy in its entirety. There is no question of supporting this committee; it should be dissolved immediately,” he asserted.
Insiders from the Congress have suggested that the party aims to avoid being overshadowed by the Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) regarding the ongoing discourse between Marathi and non-Marathi speakers.
“A substantial portion of Congress leadership and members in Mumbai belong to the north Indian and non-Marathi speaking demographics. Why should we jeopardize our voter base?” questioned a Congress leader from Mumbai.
Other state Congress leaders share concerns about aligning with the Thackerays at this time.
“Currently, it appears that the local body elections will be a solo endeavor for all. Our focus should be on fortifying our organization rather than trailing behind others,” remarked a senior party MLA and leader from Vidarbha.
Point of View
The Congress party's decision to abstain from the Uddhav-Raj Thackeray rally underscores a strategic approach to protect its voter base. This move reflects an awareness of the delicate balance between regional sentiments and electoral viability, ensuring that they remain aligned with the interests of their constituents while positioning themselves against the imposition of Hindi.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Congress not attending the rally?
Congress has chosen to distance itself due to concerns about maintaining its non-Marathi vote bank ahead of crucial elections.
What is the stance of Congress on Hindi imposition?
Congress opposes the imposition of Hindi and supports the use of Marathi while respecting all languages.
Who are the Thackeray brothers?
Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray are prominent political figures in Maharashtra, known for their leadership in different factions of the Shiv Sena party.
What is the Narendra Jadhav committee?
The Narendra Jadhav committee was formed to provide insights on the three-language formula for primary education in Maharashtra, which Congress opposes.
How does this decision affect the upcoming elections?
By distancing itself from the rally, Congress aims to strengthen its organization and avoid alienating its voter base ahead of local elections.
