‘Your actions lead to fingers getting pointed at me… don’t compel me to act’: Shinde’s stern message to partymen
The remarks come in the backdrop of recent controversies involving Shiv Sena MLAs Sanjay Gaikwad and Sanjay Shirsat, both of whom have faced public criticism over their actions, statements and conduct
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Addressing a meeting of party workers in Dadar, Shinde said the actions of a few have started reflecting poorly on the leadership (X/@mieknathshinde)Amid growing concerns over conduct of some of his party legislators, Shiv Sena chief and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday delivered a strong message to ministers and MLAs, urging them to maintain discipline and steer clear of actions that bring disrepute to the party.
Addressing a meeting of party workers in Dadar, Shinde said the actions of a few have started reflecting poorly on the leadership.
“In the past few days, certain incidents have taken place… People don’t point fingers at you — they point at me for what you do. They ask me: ‘What are your MLAs up to?’” Shinde said.
The remarks come in the backdrop of recent controversies involving Shiv Sena MLAs Sanjay Gaikwad and Sanjay Shirsat, both of whom have faced public criticism over their actions, statements and conduct.
Gaikwad was recently in the news after he slapped a staffer of an MLA hostel canteen in Mumbai, after he was served stale food. Gaikwad had said that he doesn’t regret his action and won’t apologise and even went on to say that he will repeat it again, which had brought severe backlash from people.
“You all are my people. We are one family. Your disrepute is my disrepute. Don’t waste your energy on unnecessary matters. Speak less, work more,” Shinde told the gathering.
Issuing a veiled warning, the Shiv Sena leader referred to instances in the past where ministers had to resign amid public outrage.
“Some ministers had to step down due to public backlash. I don’t like to take action against members of my own family. But don’t compel me to do it. I expect discipline and accountability from each of you,” he said, in what was seen as a message directed at the two MLAs without naming them.
Positioning himself as a grassroots leader, Shinde reiterated that party functionaries must not lose sight of their responsibilities. “I don’t behave like a boss, I don’t get angry and act like a karyakarta (party worker)—and you should too. Don’t let your success get to your head. No matter how many positions you hold, always remember: you are first and foremost a worker,” he said.
Shinde also cautioned that the party’s recent gains had brought added scrutiny. “We have achieved a lot in a very short span. The people are with us—and because of that, some are now trying to malign us. Be alert and cautious. The coming time will test us. Public life demands discipline—and we must uphold it,” he added.
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