Uddhav Thackeray Regrets Seeking Votes for Modi, Cites Betrayal

At a recent election rally in Ichalkaranji, Kolhapur district, Shiv Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray launched a scathing critique against the Narendra Modi-led central government, accusing it of betraying Maharashtra. In a candid admission, Thackeray expressed regret for supporting Modi in the 2014 and 2019 elections. The political leader's remarks come amidst ongoing litigation regarding the split within the Shiv Sena party, with Thackeray suggesting that Prime Minister Modi's comments on the party were an attempt to influence the Supreme Court's decision.

During the same rally, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) SP president Sharad Pawar joined Thackeray in criticizing the central government. Pawar highlighted that Modi's visits to Maharashtra were marked by criticisms of him and Thackeray rather than discussions on future plans for the state. Furthermore, Pawar accused the Centre of leveraging central agencies against political opponents, referencing the arrests of Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and former Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on corruption charges.

Thackeray reminisced about the time when his party formed an alliance with the BJP, despite no other party being willing to do so. He lamented the downfall of his government in June 2022, orchestrated by a party that had benefitted from his family's sacrifices. "I apologise for seeking votes for Modi in the past because his government has betrayed Maharashtra," Thackeray stated, expressing his disillusionment with the BJP.

The Sena UBT chief also accused the BJP of exploiting Shiv Sena's support during Lok Sabha elections only to undermine its candidates in assembly polls. Thackeray's declaration of seeking vengeance underscores the deep rift that led to his departure from the BJP alliance in 2019.

This political discourse highlights a tumultuous phase in Maharashtra's politics, with allegations of betrayal and misuse of power at its core. As leaders from both Shiv Sena UBT and NCP articulate their grievances against the central government, it underscores a broader narrative of discontent and political maneuvering within the state's political landscape.