Is Uddhav Thackeray’s Agenda Truly About Marathi?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- BJP's Bawankule questions Thackeray's intentions.
- Claims of political opportunism arise as elections approach.
- Raj Thackeray remains a focal point despite criticism.
- Shiv Sena's internal dynamics play a significant role.
- Public perception of Marathi identity is at stake.
Mumbai, July 5 (NationPress) Chandrashekhar Bawankule, the former president of Maharashtra BJP and current Revenue Minister, took aim at Uddhav Thackeray, the chief of Shiv Sena UBT, stating that it is evident from his remarks that his true focus is not on 'M' for 'Marathi', but rather 'M' for 'Municipal Corporation'.
“Thackeray’s affinity for Marathi appears to be nothing more than a political gimmick that rears its head during election time. The electorate has become wise to this duplicity,” he remarked following the joint rally attended by Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, which celebrated the state government's decision to revoke two resolutions regarding the introduction of Hindi alongside Marathi and English.
Interestingly, Bawankule refrained from criticizing Raj Thackeray directly.
He pointed out that Uddhav Thackeray's claims of Marathi pride were merely a lament in Worli about losing power.
“Why did he endorse the report that mandated Hindi from the first grade in 2022 while he was the Chief Minister? He has never addressed this question,” Bawankule stated.
He emphasized that the Marathi language represents more than mere sentiment; it needs to be reflected in sound policies.
“During your tenure in Mumbai, you neglected the Marathi populace. Now, in a bid to reclaim power, you are feigning affection for Marathi,” he added.
Bawankule reiterated that Uddhav Thackeray’s statements reveal that his genuine agenda is focused on 'M' for 'Municipal Corporation'.
“His proclaimed love for Marathi is merely a political maneuver that emerges in election season. The public has recognized this hypocrisy,” Bawankule remarked.
Moreover, Ashish Shelar, the Mumbai BJP president and Cultural Affairs Minister, asserted that the handshake between Uddhav and Raj Thackeray is merely a tactic to win the family 'battle' amid fears of electoral defeat.
In a post on X, Shelar stated: “This is not about the Marathi language but rather a public plea for electoral support! With municipal elections on the horizon, the beleaguered Uddhav Sena, intimidated by BJP, is suddenly recalling family ties. The event in Worli was a family reunion aimed at publicly appealing to the brother they previously disavowed. There is no genuine love for the Marathi language or anything of the sort... it is all about their desperate quest for municipal power to exploit Mumbai again.”
Conversely, the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde exclusively targeted Uddhav Thackeray, labeling him a detractor and a superficial leader while praising Raj Thackeray as wise and a true advocate for Marathi.
In a post on X, Shiv Sena juxtaposed the leadership styles of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray.
“One is enlightened, while the other is provocative. One is correct, and the other is misguided. One is younger yet grand, while the other is grand yet younger. One cherishes Marathi, whereas the other loves power. One wields a whip in words, while the other harbors vengeance in speech. One is a champion of Marathi, while the other is a detractor. One is wise, while the other is foolish. One upholds the legacy of Marathi, while the other fills their own pockets. One stands tall with independent pride, while the other is merely a hollow figurehead.”