Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s dismissive approach towards Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray has given rise to intense speculation about a possible post-poll understanding between the BJP and the saffron party. In an interview with TV9, PM Modi became emotional while talking about the late Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray.
Prime Minister Modi claimed to have had close ties with the Thackeray family, saying he had “deep respect” for them. Importantly, he said Balasaheb appointed Shiv Sena’s Eknath Shinde as chief minister even though the BJP had a majority of MLAs because he loved him. It may be recalled that Devendra Fadnavis of the BJP had assumed that he would be appointed as the CM after the collapse of the Uddhav Thackeray-led MVA government. However, in an unexpected turn of events, the BJP central leadership appointed Shinde as CM. The Chief Minister said this was a tribute to Balasaheb.
PM Modi balances political conflict with respect for the individual
Prime Minister Modi, who had just recently called the Shiv Sena (UBT) the “fake Sena”, also pointed out that he was reluctant to speak out against Uddhav during the campaign despite the political rivalry between the two parties. did. He attributed this to “out of respect for Balasaheb”. Most interestingly, he said, “If Uddhav Thackeray or his family face any problem other than political issues, he will be the first to come to their rescue.”
Mr. Modi’s remarks should be seen in the context of the fact that Mr. Uddhav Thackeray has been one of Mr. Modi’s harshest critics during rallies across Maharashtra. Mr. Uddhav left no opportunity to target Mr. Modi personally.
Prime Minister Modi’s strategic silence and potential alliances
Political observers say the chief minister’s refusal to attack Mr. Uddhav and even offers of support hint at his plans to join forces with the Shiv Sena (UBT) if his party does not reach the numbers needed to form the government. I have my doubts that this may be at the root of the problem. “Mr. Modi has offered support to the Thackerays outside of politics, but there is nothing stopping him from extending political support as well if required,” said a senior Bharatiya Janata Party official.
However, the relationship between the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Shiv Sena (UBT) has reached rock bottom. Uddhav feels that the Bharatiya Janata Party has split the undivided Shiv Sena (and rightly Of course). The BJP not only split the Sena, but sought to politically alienate the remaining Uddhav faction by making long-ruling Shiv Sainik Eknath Shinde the chief minister. Whatever the post-poll situation, Prime Minister Modi hinted enough in his interview that he has some aces up his sleeve against the Thackerays.
Published on: Saturday, May 4, 2024, 2:51 AM IST
