Image Credit: X account @uddhavthackeray
Uddhav Thackeray Reacts to BJP’s Maharashtra Win, Questions Mandate
Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray expressed disbelief at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led alliance’s overwhelming victory in the state assembly elections.
Speaking to reporters, Thackeray said he was shocked by the outcome, especially given the stark contrast to the Maha Vikas Aghadi’s (MVA) strong performance in the Lok Sabha elections held just four months earlier.
“How Did This Turnaround Happen?”
Thackeray questioned the dramatic shift in voter behavior, stating, “Maharashtra, which once listened to me as a family head during COVID, has behaved differently. How could the ruling alliance win so many seats in just four months? Where did they light candles for such a result?”
The MVA leader pointed to the strong attendance at opposition rallies compared to those of the BJP and its allies, wondering how the public could have voted contrary to their apparent support. “How can an empty chair turn into votes?” he asked, sarcastically questioning the legitimacy of the electoral outcome.
“One Party, One Nation”
Thackeray referenced BJP President JP Nadda’s past statement about moving toward “one party, one nation,” suggesting the election results align with this vision. “It seems they are moving in the same direction. I urge people not to lose hope,” he added.
Response to Shiv Sena Identity
Thackeray dismissed the BJP and Eknath Shinde faction’s claims of proving themselves as the “real Shiv Sena,” emphasizing that the matter is still pending in court. “For years, we have not received a decision on the party name and election symbol,” he noted, reiterating his faith in the judicial process.
Election Results and Reactions
The BJP-led alliance, Mahayuthi, comprising Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena, Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, and the BJP, secured 236 of the 288 assembly seats. Thackeray’s faction of the Shiv Sena (UBT) won just 20 of the 89 seats it contested, falling far behind the Shinde faction, which won 57 out of 80 seats.
Despite the defeat, Thackeray refused to blame the Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), stating, “If people have accepted the results, I have no problem.”
Political Fallout
The massive setback for the MVA follows months of political upheaval, including the split in the Shiv Sena and the collapse of Thackeray’s government, as well as divisions within Sharad Pawar’s NCP. The BJP’s victory in Maharashtra, alongside its recent success in Haryana, underscores its continued political dominance despite perceptions of anti-incumbency.
Thackeray’s remarks highlight growing concerns within the opposition about the BJP’s consolidation of power, with calls to address voter disillusionment and political fragmentation.
