Uddhav Emerges as Leader of 'Aurangzeb Supporters': Maharashtra Minister

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Bawankule rebuts Thackeray's claims on Hindutva.
- Thackeray labeled as leader of Aurangzeb fan club.
- BJP's Saugat-e-Modi linked to development, not vote bank politics.
- Modi's government credited for national progress.
- Uday Samant defends BJP's support for patriotic Muslims.
Mumbai, March 27 (NationPress) Maharashtra BJP chief and state revenue minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule responded sharply to Shiv Sena-UBT leader Uddhav Thackeray's allegations of forsaking Hindutva. He stated that Thackeray no longer holds the authority to discuss Hindutva as he has assumed the role of leader of the Aurangzeb fan club.
“Hindutva is ingrained in our essence, yet Uddhav Thackeray has turned his back on it. Now, he leads the Aurangzeb fan club. He traded the legacy of Hindutva for power, aligning himself with Congress. Consequently, the public has relegated him to a position of inactivity. He forfeited his right to speak on Hindutva. BJP's 'Saugat-e-Modi' is not merely a program; it signifies a commitment to development,” Bawankule remarked after Thackeray accused the BJP of initiating 'Saugat-e-Modi' to entice Muslim voters ahead of the Bihar elections.
“The government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has provided the nation with 24-hour electricity, water, roads, housing, and jobs. What did Uddhav Thackeray offer the people of Maharashtra during his tenure as Chief Minister? While he occupied the Chief Minister's office, he distanced himself from his own party members. Uddhav Thackeray is unqualified to criticize PM Modi, who tirelessly serves the nation with dedication,” Bawankule added.
The BJP leader further asserted: "Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is effectively implementing laws to tackle criminals, illegal encroachments, and those fostering anti-social behavior. But why have these individuals become close to Uddhav Thackeray now? He should provide the public with answers to this question."
Conversely, Shiv Sena minister Uday Samant stated that the party has consistently supported patriotic Muslims, which is also the case with PM Modi and the BJP.
"We do not endorse any Muslim who advocates for Pakistan. If PM Modi is assisting the Muslims of the nation, it is commendable. Uddhav Thackeray fears losing the votes he gained in the Lok Sabha elections due to 'Saugat-e-Modi', which is why he is opposing it,” he remarked.