In Maharashtra, Milind Deora, a Member of Rajya Sabha from the Shiv Sena Shinde faction, has taken a sharp jibe at Uddhav Thackeray. Deora posted on X, pointing out how Thackeray has disappointed by prioritizing leisure from 'the sons of the nation to tourists of India.' As the Pahalgam incident unfolded, photos showed him holidaying in Europe, and he remained silent even during Maharashtra Day.
Despite this, Uddhav Thackeray is yet to break his silence on Milind Deora's criticism. Interestingly, both took their European trips simultaneously, raising speculations in media circles about a possible meet-up between them abroad.
The decision of Uddhav Thackeray, former Chief Minister and Shiv Sena leader, to vacation abroad with his family on the 65th Maharashtra Day stirred political controversies. The ruling coalition questioned his absence from the grand celebrations in Mumbai. Meanwhile, every other party paid homage to the martyrs of the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement with full dedication, marking his absence as noticeable.
Read More: Differences in MVA over the Pahalgam Attack? Congress and Sharad Pawar Support Center while Uddhav’s Group Raises Concerns
During a podcast, Raj Thackeray mentioned to Mahesh Manjrekar that disputes look minor compared to Maharashtra's larger existence. Reconciliation isn't impossible; it boils down to the intent behind it. This raised discussions on whether Uddhav and Raj Thackeray were planning a political alliance.
Responding to Raj Thackeray, Uddhav expressed his readiness to bury small conflicts but posed a condition. He stated that anyone opposing Maharashtra's welfare wouldn't be welcomed at their home for meals. In a noteworthy gesture during an event, Uddhav extended an olive branch emphasizing unity and protection of Marathi interests. Uddhav declared his determination to resolve pointless disputes for Maharashtra's unity and progress.
He appeals to all Marathi citizens for solidarity in Maharashtra's interest. Reflecting on past Lok Sabha elections, he shared that if Raj Thackeray had challenged the industries moving to Gujarat, the current central government might have been different. Uddhav suggested setting up a pro-Maharashtra government both centrally and at the state level that truly understands its needs. He advocated for repealing black laws infringing workers' rights. He concluded strongly, stating that the 'support sometimes, oppose sometimes' policy cannot continue.