Why is Sanjay Raut Criticizing Congress Over MNS's Entry?
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Synopsis
In a recent outburst, Shiv Sena-UBT MP Sanjay Raut chastised the Congress for blocking MNS's entry into the Maha Vikas Aghadi. Raut believes this decision may stem from personal choices of the Mumbai Congress chief, as he asserts that both Shiv Sena UBT and MNS have already formed a coalition, emphasizing the will of the people.
Key Takeaways
- Sanjay Raut is critical of Congress for their stance on MNS.
- Raut believes the coalition reflects the will of the people.
- The Mumbai Congress chief insists on an independent approach for the BMC elections.
- Opposition unity is deemed crucial against BJP's tactics.
- The Thackeray faction warns against ignoring Marathi public sentiment.
Mumbai, Nov 22 (NationPress) Shiv Sena-UBT MP Sanjay Raut on Saturday criticized the Congress party for resisting the inclusion of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) into the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) without the approval of the party's high command. He remarked that this could reflect the personal decision of the Mumbai Congress chief, as both Shiv Sena UBT and MNS have already united.
Raut, currently undergoing medical examination, expressed in a post on X, “Without directives from Delhi, I will not prioritize MNS: Mumbai Congress. This might be a personal choice by Congress. Shiv Sena and MNS have united; it’s the will of the people. There’s no requirement for orders or permissions. Sharad Pawar and the Left parties are also allied. Let’s save Mumbai!”
His comments followed an announcement by the Mumbai Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad, stating the party would contest the upcoming elections for the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) independently while firmly opposing any collaboration or inclusion of MNS in the MVA.
Gaikwad, after meeting NCP SP Sharad Pawar, mentioned that the party remains open to alliances with like-minded entities. “If the two brothers, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, unite, we wish them well. In the Congress, we understand that past alliances have been based on a common minimum program,” stated Gaikwad.
She emphasized that there has been no discussion regarding an alliance with the Thackeray brothers, asserting, “We cannot align with factions that operate outside the law.”
Previously, Shiv Sena UBT claimed that the Congress's announcement of contesting the elections independently would be detrimental, stating that opposition unity is crucial to counter the BJP's strategy of 'hijacking' the electoral process through disorder, financial influence, and excessive police interference aimed at separating Mumbai from Maharashtra.
The Thackeray faction, through its mouthpiece Saamana, asserted that Maharashtra would not forgive those who disregard the sentiments of the Marathi populace.
“Bihar has once again revealed the extent to which the BJP and its 'backbenchers' engage in electoral manipulation. Now, the only path is to unite and resist without delving into ideological differences. Cultural discussions can follow later. Rahul Gandhi has already mentioned instructing the current Chief Election Commissioner, Gyanesh Kumar, and that lesson can only be taught with a united opposition,” it warned.
--IAN
sj/uk
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the dynamics at play in Maharashtra's political landscape. Raut's statements reflect a growing tension among opposition parties, emphasizing the need for unity against a formidable BJP. The public sentiment is crucial, and understanding these alliances will be key to predicting electoral outcomes.
NationPress
22/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main criticism by Sanjay Raut against the Congress party?
Sanjay Raut criticized the Congress for opposing the entry of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) into the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) without approval from the party high command, suggesting it might be a personal decision by the Mumbai Congress chief.
What was the response of the Mumbai Congress chief regarding alliances?
Mumbai Congress chief Varsha Gaikwad stated that the party would contest the BMC elections independently and emphasized that no discussions regarding alliances with the Thackeray brothers had taken place.
What did Shiv Sena UBT claim about Congress's decision to contest independently?
Shiv Sena UBT claimed that Congress's decision to go solo in elections would be suicidal and stressed that opposition unity is essential to counter BJP's strategies.
