The opposition bloc INDIA commenced its election campaign at Mumbai’s historic Shivaji Park. The event marked the culmination of Rahul Gandhi’s Bharat Jodo Nyay Yatra, drawing attention to both political unity and discord within the opposition ranks.
The venue choice sparked controversy as Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, a Shiv Sena leader, expressed dissatisfaction over hosting the rally at Shivaji Park. Shinde lamented that the park holds significant historical value as it was where Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray addressed the nation. He criticized the rally attendees for allegedly disrespecting figures like Veer Savarkar and accused the Congress of being anti-Hindu.
Shinde’s remarks hinted at internal rifts within the ruling coalition, particularly targeting former party colleague Uddhav Thackeray, who aligned with the Congress and Nationalist Congress Party for governance purposes. This rift was further highlighted as Sena (UBT) MLC Aamshya Padavi joined Shiv Sena during the event, symbolizing a shift in political affiliations.
Speaking after joining Shiv Sena, Padavi emphasized the party’s commitment to Balasaheb’s ideology and expressed discomfort with the Congress, aligning with Shinde’s sentiments. This development underscored the ongoing political realignments and ideological clashes within Maharashtra’s political landscape.
Meanwhile, the INDIA bloc utilized the platform to launch its election campaign, with prominent leaders like Farooq Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti, Uddhav Thackeray, MK Stalin, and Mallikarjun Kharge in attendance. The leaders collectively criticized the BJP-led central government, setting the tone for a heated electoral battle in the upcoming elections.
The juxtaposition of political unity and discord at Shivaji Park symbolizes the complex dynamics of Indian politics, where alliances, ideologies, and power struggles intertwine amidst the backdrop of election fervor.
