Uddhav Thackeray, addressing party members during the Shiv Sena’s 60th foundation day in Mumbai, expressed his willingness to resign as party president if the workers lose confidence in his leadership. His statement comes amid growing speculation about a potential division within Shiv Sena (UBT). Thackeray emphasized his openness to new leaders emerging within the party, while asserting he would not let it fall into what he termed as the hands of betrayers.
Reports have surfaced suggesting that several Shiv Sena (UBT) Members of Parliament might pledge their allegiance to the faction led by Eknath Shinde. In response, Thackeray issued an apology to the electorate who backed candidates under his leadership, expressing regret over the alleged defections. This development has fueled concerns about the party’s unity and future direction.
Thackeray did not hold back in his critique of the Bharatiya Janata Party, accusing it of efforts to destabilize and dismantle his party. He warned of a growing trend in India’s political arena toward a single-party dominance, which he views as a concerning shift. His comments suggest a deepening rift with the BJP and reflect broader tensions within the political landscape.
On the matter of relations with the Congress, Thackeray acknowledged a long-standing rivalry but noted that the Congress had never attempted to obliterate Shiv Sena. Despite this acknowledgment, he firmly ruled out any possibility of merging with the Congress, reiterating that Shiv Sena’s core mission remains to serve the interests of the Marathi people. This stance underscores his commitment to maintaining the party’s distinct identity and regional focus.