Did Deputy CM Shinde's 'Jai Gujarat' Slogan Spark a Political Uproar in Maharashtra?
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Synopsis
The political landscape in Maharashtra was shaken when Deputy CM Eknath Shinde declared ‘Jai Gujarat’ at a public event, igniting controversy and criticism from opposition parties. This move comes at a pivotal time, as the Thackeray brothers prepare for a joint rally against the imposition of Hindi in schools.
Key Takeaways
- Eknath Shinde stirred controversy with his ‘Jai Gujarat’ slogan.
- The slogan was made during an event attended by Amit Shah.
- This move is seen as a political strategy amidst ongoing language debates in Maharashtra.
- The Thackeray brothers are preparing for a joint rally against the imposition of Hindi.
- The reaction from opposition parties highlights the significance of regional identity in politics.
Mumbai, July 4 (NationPress) Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief leader Eknath Shinde sparked a political uproar with his ‘Jai Hind, Jai Maharashtra, Jai Gujarat’ slogan during an event attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
At the inauguration of the Jairaj Sports and Convention Centre, organized by the Shri Poona Gujarati Bandhu Samaj, he lauded HM Shah and, while concluding, exclaimed ‘Jai Hind, Jai Maharashtra’. Just as he was leaving the microphone, he returned to add ‘Jai Gujarat’, which captured the attention of everyone present.
Among those in attendance were Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, higher and technical education minister Chandrakant Patil, and Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol.
Shinde's announcement of ‘Jai Gujarat’ coincides with the upcoming joint victory rally of the estranged brothers Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, organized by Shiv Sena UBT and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena in Worli on July 5. This rally celebrates their stand against the state government’s earlier decision to introduce Hindi alongside Marathi for grades 1 to 5.
The government ultimately retracted its resolutions on the introduction of Hindi from grade one. Both brothers have called for the protection of the Marathi language.
Moreover, Shinde’s decision to include ‘Jai Gujarat’ is politically notable, especially as Shiv Sena UBT leader Uddhav Thackeray has been accusing the BJP-led government and NITI Aayog of diminishing Mumbai’s significance and attempting to separate it from Maharashtra.
The Shiv Sena UBT and NCP (SP) have strongly condemned Shinde’s remarks.
Shiv Sena UBT deputy leader Sushama Andhare criticized Shinde, claiming it was a desperate effort to curry favor with Delhi. She asserted, “This is undoubtedly part of a political strategy. As the Marathi community unites against the imposition of Hindi, the BJP is likely to seek to consolidate non-Marathi votes. Shinde’s invocation of ‘Jai Gujarat’ aims to portray himself as a key ally in this effort. With municipal elections approaching, such statements are timed to resonate with non-Marathi voters. It raises the question: how can someone born and raised in Maharashtra betray their roots while being loyal to Gujarat?” she asked.
NCP (SP) legislator Jitendra Awhad took a jab at Shinde, inquiring, “Kem Cho Shinde Saab?” (How are you, Shinde Saab?). He reminded Shinde that the Shiv Sena was established to represent the Marathi Manoos.
Point of View
It is crucial to observe that Eknath Shinde’s recent proclamation is a calculated political strategy. The evolving dynamics in Maharashtra politics, particularly with the Thackeray brothers uniting their efforts against the imposition of Hindi, indicate that regional identity and language issues remain at the forefront of political discourse. It is essential for all parties to engage constructively in this debate, respecting the sentiments of the Marathi populace while addressing broader electoral strategies.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the slogan announced by Deputy CM Shinde?
Deputy CM Shinde announced ‘Jai Hind, Jai Maharashtra, Jai Gujarat’ at a public event.
Who attended the event where Shinde made the announcement?
Union Home Minister Amit Shah was present at the event along with other political figures.
Why is Shinde's slogan controversial?
The slogan is controversial as it comes amidst political tensions regarding the imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra's education system.
What is the significance of the timing of Shinde's statement?
Shinde's statement coincides with the upcoming rally of the Thackeray brothers, highlighting tensions between regional identity and political strategies.
What was the opposition's reaction to Shinde's slogan?
Opposition leaders criticized Shinde, suggesting his statement was a political tactic to appeal to non-Marathi voters.
