Is SS-UBT Always Supporting the Government in Times of Crisis? Uddhav Thackeray Speaks Out

Synopsis
Uddhav Thackeray of Shiv Sena-UBT emphasizes that despite ideological differences, the party will stand by the Prime Minister in times of national crisis. He calls on party members to focus on pressing issues affecting the common man, asserting the importance of transparency in elections and the party's resilience amidst challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Uddhav Thackeray emphasizes support for the Prime Minister in crises.
- The party aims to address issues affecting ordinary citizens.
- Thackeray reassures party members about their resilience amidst departures.
- Transparency in elections is a priority for Shiv Sena-UBT.
- Kashmir remains a crucial national issue for the party.
Mumbai, May 17 (NationPress) Uddhav Thackeray, the leader of Shiv Sena-UBT, remarked on Saturday that while there might be ideological differences, the party will always stand alongside the Prime Minister during national emergencies. “We are not against the nation but we oppose the government. Kashmir belongs to us. It was ours yesterday, it is ours today, and it will belong to us tomorrow. One day, the BJP may not be in power, but Kashmir will always remain ours,” he declared during a gathering of party MPs, legislators, and district leaders at Sena Bhavan in Dadar.
The meeting focused on assessing the organizational readiness for the upcoming local and civic body elections, particularly following a recent Supreme Court ruling mandating the state to complete the electoral process within four months.
This assembly also coincided with the departure of several significant party members who have opted to join the Eknath Shinde faction of Shiv Sena.
Nevertheless, undaunted by the exodus, Thackeray asserted: “Our ship is not sinking; rather, it's the overloaded ship of BJP that is in distress. Amit Shah leads three parties, including Shiv Sena and the NCP, in addition to the BJP. Power shifts, and we aim to stay grounded whether in power or out,” he stated.
He urged party members to intensify their efforts to reclaim power.
“Even those whom we have supported are leaving. Their departure won't impact our party. Let them go; our dedicated workers remain with us,” Thackeray emphasized.
Thackeray also mentioned the JPC's recent visit to Mumbai regarding the One Nation One Election initiative, noting that the study and process for simultaneous elections are currently in progress.
“Elections must be conducted transparently. While it's acceptable for the government to pursue One Nation One Election, the Prime Minister and Chief Minister should refrain from campaigning,” he stated.
Shiv Sena-UBT MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, speaking to reporters post-meeting, remarked, “Thackeray has urged Shiv Sainiks to concentrate on the various challenges confronting everyday citizens.”
“State issues were addressed. The ongoing conflict between India and Pakistan has overshadowed pressing concerns in Maharashtra and the struggles of ordinary people. He instructed party activists to prioritize the issues affecting the common populace, including those faced by the beloved sisters (under the Ladki Bahin Yojana), farmers, and water shortages,”
she added.