Congress attacks BJP, MNS; says divisive politics harms Mumbai

Sawant further stated that Congress will not compromise on its constitutional, democratic and secular ideology. “We oppose and reject BJP’s politics of religious polarisation. The BJP is attempting to create Hindu–Muslim divisions in Mumbai for political gain. Instead of addressing critical issues such as roads, water, healthcare, education, housing and pollution, they push the election narrative solely on religion,” he said.

“At the same time, the MNS has created fear and hatred under the guise of promoting Marathi pride, damaging Mumbai’s social harmony. Congress also values Marathi pride, but hatred, violence and discrimination against other linguistic groups is not Marathi pride. Congress cannot accept MNS’ history of violence,” he said.

“Parties that do politics on religion, language and caste have no concern for real issues. Congress will contest elections with these real issues at the centre,” Sawant added.

Maharashtra Congress in-charge Ramesh Chennithala on Saturday had said that as per the wishes of the local unit of the party, the Congress will contest upcoming Mumbai local body polls independently.

Congress has decided to distance itself from its Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) ally Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray with speculations that his party is inching closer to form an alliance with Raj Thackeray led MNS in Mumbai.