Raj Thackeray attacks Uddhav, blames him for Sena split

Raj Thackeray also claimed that an illegal religious structure of minority is being constructed in the middle of the sea, near Mahim and giving an ultimatum to government, Raj said the government should take action on it within a month's time or the MNS will built a temple exactly besides it.

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Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). (File)

MNS chief Raj Thackeray on Wednesday launched an attack on his estranged cousin and Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray by holding the latter responsible for the split in the Shiv Sena last year. Raj Thackeray also blamed the former CM for the exodus of senior leaders, including him and Narayan Rane, from Sena.

“Senior leader and former CM Narayan Rane was forced to exit from the party. He never wanted to quit Shiv Sena as he was loyal to Bal Thackeray. But he had to leave because there was a definite plot to forcibly ensure his exit. I was just being used for campaigns. I was denied an organisational role… there was meticulous planning to undermine my role. I was completely sidelined. Instructions were issued not to use my photos,” Raj Thackeray said at a Gudi Padwa rally in Mumbai.

Raj Thackeray also claimed that an illegal religious structure of minority is being constructed in the middle of the sea, near Mahim and giving an ultimatum to government, Raj said the government should take action on it within a month’s time or the MNS will built a temple exactly besides it.

He added that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde — who rebelled against Uddhav and formed the government with the BJP — left because of the Sena (UBT) chief. “Eknath Shinde, along with 40 MLAs, left Uddhav Thackeray because of his leadership. Even as the CM, Uddhav Thackeray never met MLAs. Suddenly now, he has started stepping out,” he said.
“Uddhav is travelling all over Maharashtra to gain sympathy but he is not introspecting,” he added.

Raking up the issue of azaan being played on loudspeakers atop mosques, Raj Thackeray urged Shinde to prove that he is the true follower of Bal Thackeray’s legacy and sort out the matter

Vallabh Ozarkar

Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With more than nine years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read More

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