Mumbai, Oct 2 (NationPress) The chief of Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT), Uddhav Thackeray, suggested on Thursday a robust partnership with the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), led by Raj Thackeray, in the forthcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. This collaboration aims to prevent a division of votes among Marathi-speaking citizens and thwart the BJP-led government’s efforts to fragment Mumbai.

During his address at the traditional Dusserah rally held at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park, also referred to as Shivtirth, he reiterated, “I had announced on July 5 during a victory rally that we have united to ensure the welfare of Marathi and Maharashtra.”

Despite heavy downpours, Shiv Sainiks braved the elements to demonstrate their allegiance to Thackeray and the party. Speculation surrounded Raj Thackeray's potential appearance at the rally; however, he did not take the stage.

Thackeray encouraged party members to prepare for the approaching BMC elections. He commenced his speech by extending greetings for Vijayadashami, invoking the festival's narrative of dharma triumphing over adharma.

“Let the truth triumph over falsehoods, and may all crises in Maharashtra find resolution,” he remarked, linking it to the political and economic hurdles facing the state.

Reiterating themes from the July rally, he criticized the MahaYuti government for its previous push to introduce Hindi as a third language in schools, labeling it an “imposition” on the Marathi culture.

“We fought for Marathi, and we shall continue to defend it. This is just the beginning; more is on the way.” He alluded to a more substantial Shiv Sena-MNS partnership for local elections.

Thackeray asserted that his party would not permit the imposition of Hindi in Maharashtra, a state that has been awarded Classical language status for Marathi.

He accused the BJP and the central government of neglecting Maharashtra while favoring election-centric states like Bihar.

“Maharashtra is in distress, yet you focus on Bihar elections, showering Rs 10,000 on women while disregarding our needs. This is a betrayal,” he stated.

He pointed to PM Modi's recent announcements related to Bihar as proof of favoritism. He urged the state government to promptly allocate Rs 50,000 per hectare to farmers adversely affected by severe rains and floods.

Thackeray warned that if the government fails to deliver assistance, the party would initiate a protest in Marathwada, which has suffered significantly.

He criticized the state government for its inaction and its focus on self-promotion through advertisements, emphasizing that it lacks a coherent vision and is insufficiently addressing farmers' concerns or the aftermath of natural disasters.

Thackeray firmly defended his interpretation of Hindutva while taking a jab at the BJP, stating, “Our Hindutva is for the sons of Maharashtra, not merely the ringing of temple bells or using utensils during COVID. The legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray resides with us, not with those who have divided our family.”

He condemned the BJP for spreading misinformation to promote its lotus symbol and wrongfully imprisoning many individuals. He questioned how those who have supported Pakistan could be deemed patriots.

Referring to deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde as a “gaddar” (traitor), Thackeray mocked the rival Shiv Sena’s claims to Balasaheb Thackeray’s heritage. “They may have taken our symbol and party, but the true essence of Shiv Sena beats here.” He hinted at the 2022 split, asserting that the government’s actions against him reflect historical betrayals.

He referenced Sonam Wangchuck, criticized as a traitor for attending a conference in Pakistan, questioning why PM Modi’s visit to celebrate Nawaz Sharif's birthday was not labeled treasonous. Thackeray also addressed national matters, denouncing “anti-national” entities who prioritize cricket matches over national security, alluding to recent comments about the India-Pakistan Asia Cup.