Is There No Shame? Shiv Sena MP Critiques Uddhav Thackeray for European Getaway Amid Pahalgam Mourning

Synopsis
Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora has taken a strong stance against Uddhav Thackeray for choosing a European vacation over honoring victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. This political controversy highlights the stark contrast in leadership during times of national grief and raises questions about commitment to cultural pride.
Key Takeaways
- Milind Deora strongly criticized Uddhav Thackeray for his vacation amidst national mourning.
- The Pahalgam terror attack has drawn widespread outrage.
- Thackeray's absence during key events raises questions about political responsibility.
- Comparisons were made between Thackeray and DCM Eknath Shinde's responses to the tragedy.
- This incident exemplifies the growing divide in political engagement during crises.
Mumbai, May 4 (NationPress) Shiv Sena MP Milind Deora has sharply criticized Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray for enjoying a family vacation in Europe during a time of national grief over the victims of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. This tragic incident involved four armed terrorists affiliated with The Resistance Front (TRF), a splinter group of Lashkar-e-Taiba, who emerged from Baisran Valley and took the lives of 26 civilians, inciting widespread outrage both nationally and internationally.
Reports indicate that Thackeray departed for Europe on the very day of the attack, prompting intense backlash from political rivals and leaders across the political spectrum.
In a post on X, Deora remarked, "From sons of the soil to tourists of India -- how far the Thackerays have fallen. While bullets flew in Pahalgam, they were vacationing in Europe."
He further stated, "On Maharashtra Day, they vanished without a word. No statement. No solidarity. No shame." Deora labeled this a striking instance of "luxury politics," contrasting Thackeray's absence with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who actively participated in mourning the victims and honoring the security personnel.
"In contrast, DCM Eknath Shinde led from the front, stood with the victims & honored our heroes. Maharashtra needs warriors on duty, not part-time Netas on holiday," Deora said.
The timing of Thackeray's trip has ignited significant political controversy, especially as it coincided with Maharashtra Day celebrations.
Uddhav Thackeray's absence at the 65th Maharashtra Foundation Day event has drawn sharp criticism from the ruling Mahayuti alliance, which questions his commitment to the state's cultural pride.
The BJP's Mumbai chief and Maharashtra Culture Minister Ashish Shelar accused Thackeray of neglecting the Marathi identity he frequently references.
Furthermore, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Nirupam expressed discontent, stating, "When it's time to pay tribute to those who lost their lives, the Thackeray family is vacationing abroad." Leaders from various political parties attended the tribute ceremony at Hutatma Chowk to honor the martyrs of the Samyukta Maharashtra movement.
Among the attendees were senior NCP leader Supriya Sule, MNS chief Raj Thackeray, and Mumbai Congress president Varsha Gaikwad.