Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Yuva Sena chief Aaditya Thackeray launched a sharp attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) during a torchlight rally in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, questioning its decision to welcome individuals connected to the Palghar sadhu attack case into its fold. The rally on Friday marked the commencement of his party's campaign for the upcoming municipal corporation elections scheduled for January 15.
Hypocrisy Over Party Inductions
Addressing a large gathering of youths at the rally that proceeded from Kranti Chowk to Gulmandi, Thackeray pointed out a perceived double standard. He stated that his party faces immediate criticism whenever a new member joins. "When someone joins our party, there is immediate criticism," he said. "Then why were those accused of attacking sadhus in Palghar taken into the BJP?" This remark was a direct response to criticism from district guardian minister Sanjay Shirsat, who had mocked the Shiv Sena (UBT) for inducting former mayor Rashid Mamu.
Thackeray did not mince words, labeling the BJP as the 'Bhrasht Janata Party' and accusing it of shielding corruption and compromising on ethical standards for political gain.
Contrasting Development Records
The young leader contrasted the work of the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi government with the current administration. Recalling his past visits to the city, he mentioned personally inspecting roads late at night and proposing the introduction of cycle tracks, which have now disappeared. He credited the establishment of the major Auric City project and the employment opportunities it generated to former guardian minister and Shiv Sena colleague Subhash Desai.
In a clear indictment of the present government, Thackeray asserted that it has completely failed to generate employment for the people. He also took a veiled swipe at a local MP, urging party workers to inquire about liquor shops operating in the parliamentarian's own village, alluding to displays of unexplained wealth.
A Call for Change in Sambhajinagar
Accusing the government of failing on basic fronts like providing jobs and drinking water, Aaditya Thackeray made a direct appeal to the voters. He argued that such a party deserves to be replaced and urged Shiv Sena (UBT) workers to be the agents of transformation. He emphasized that the party's 'Mashaal' (torch) symbol was essential for bringing about this necessary change in the city's governance.
The rally sets the stage for a heated electoral battle in the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Municipal Corporation, with corruption, development, and ethical governance emerging as key campaign issues.
