Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde criticized Uddhav Thackeray, referring to him as a “conspiracy chief” who politically undermines his own party members. This remark followed Thackeray’s Dussehra rally on October 2, where Shinde expressed doubts about Thackeray’s political viability, remarking, “I doubt if his shadow will remain with him after local body polls.” Shinde announced that his faction will participate in the local body elections in Maharashtra as part of the Mahayuti alliance, emphasizing the alliance’s aim to secure the Mumbai civic body polls for the city’s advancement.
At his Dussehra gathering, Uddhav Thackeray similarly addressed the audience and directed his criticism towards the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led government. He announced plans for his party to release a White Paper that would allegedly expose mismanagement and corruption within the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
Further discussing political alliances, Uddhav Thackeray noted the collaboration with his cousin Raj Thackeray, emphasizing a commitment to solidarity between their parties. In a broader critique, he condemned the recent arrest of climate activist Sonam Wangchuk, linking it to a larger issue of diminishing rights. He stated, “Fighting for rights and justice is becoming an act of treason in the country.”
Wangchuk was arrested following violent protests in Ladakh on September 24, which were organized by the Leh Apex Body (LAB) to promote discussions with the central government regarding demands for greater autonomy. The protests resulted in four fatalities and injuries to 80 individuals, including 40 police officers. He was later detained under the National Security Act (NSA) and is currently incarcerated in Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
In addition, Uddhav Thackeray advocated for financial assistance to farmers affected by recent rains, proposing a loan waiver of ₹50,000 per hectare. He echoed Rahul Gandhi’s allegations of electoral misconduct, criticizing the BJP for its capability to “buy votes in Bihar” while neglecting support for farmers in Maharashtra.
