Fadnavis Critiques Thackeray Cousins' Survival Struggle Ahead of BMC Election

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis criticises Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, stating their alliance for the BMC election is a fight for survival rather than for the Marathi people. He emphasises Mumbai's integral role in Maharashtra during a rally supporting the Mahayuti alliance.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis criticised Shiv Sena UBT president Uddhav Thackeray and MNS leader Raj Thackeray, stating that the upcoming Mumbai civic election on January 15 is crucial for their political survival, not for Marathi people. He addressed a rally supporting the BJP-Shiv Sena Mahayuti alliance, emphasising that Mumbai is integral to Maharashtra and cannot be separated.

Fadnavis played old videos of Uddhav and Raj Thackeray attacking each other, highlighting their past conflicts. He remarked that the election is not about a threat to Marathi speakers but about the Thackeray cousins' political survival. The BJP and Shiv Sena aim to control Mumbai's civic body, which has a budget exceeding Rs 74,000 crore.

Political Alliances and Campaign Strategies

The Chief Minister expressed his commitment to electing a Mahayuti mayor in Mumbai, promising transparent governance. He urged voters to support the BJP and Shiv Sena in the upcoming polls. Fadnavis criticised the Shiv Sena's long rule in the BMC, questioning their achievements for Marathi speakers and accusing them of failing to protect their interests.

Fadnavis also addressed the MVA government's decision to make Hindi compulsory in schools from 2019 to 2022. He mentioned that his government revised the Dharavi redevelopment project, involving Adani Group as a developer. This project aims to transform Dharavi into a modern township with housing and infrastructure.

Infrastructure Developments and Economic Growth

Fadnavis highlighted the completion of Navi Mumbai International Airport, proposed years ago to ease congestion at Mumbai airport. He announced plans for a third airport in the region and expanding Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport's capacity. The Chief Minister noted India's economic growth since 2014, with increased company net worth.

He pointed out that even non-BJP states have accepted investments from Adani Group companies. Fadnavis criticised Aaditya Thackeray for mimicking him publicly, suggesting he learn from Raj Thackeray's better mimicry skills. He challenged Uddhav Thackeray to send Aaditya for a debate with BJP candidate Sheetal Gambhir.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Union minister Ramdas Athawale attended the rally. Fadnavis concluded by asserting that the Mahayuti flag will fly over Mumbai's municipal corporation, indicating confidence in their electoral success.

With inputs from PTI