Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 3: Shiv Sena chief and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Thursday launched a scathing attack on his political rival Uddhav Thackeray, asserting that Mumbai could regress “by 25 years” if the Mahayuti alliance fails to secure victory in the upcoming civic elections.

Addressing a packed crowd at the Dussehra rally at NESCO Grounds, Goregaon — moved from Azad Maidan due to heavy rains — Shinde called for unity among party members:

“We have to take Mumbai ahead. All of us must sink our differences and work together.”

Shinde did not spare Thackeray, calling him “a conspirator, not a party chief” and alleging that he had undermined his own party leaders:

“Balasaheb Thackeray had left a legacy of leaders. Who is responsible for the current state of the party? After the local body elections, even his shadow will not be with him,” Shinde said.

The deputy CM highlighted the plight of flood-affected farmers in Maharashtra, citing washed-away topsoil, lost cattle, and widespread hardship.

“As a government, we will provide aid. I, along with Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, have a meeting on Friday. My hands are never empty. I always give. We must support the flood-hit extensively and help youth in these areas,” he said.

Taking a dig at Thackeray without naming him, Shinde criticised his rival for prioritising wealth over relief efforts:

“Where has all the wealth gone, to London? He always says he has nothing to give… I did not tour flood-hit areas using vanity vans,” Shinde quipped.

He underscored Shiv Sena’s relief initiatives, mentioning the distribution of kits containing 26 essential items to farmers affected by floods, and challenged Thackeray’s party:
“Have you even given a packet of biscuits?”

Shinde also touched upon alliances, noting the cooperation between MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT), but urged supporters to focus on their own campaign. He further announced plans to celebrate 2026 as the birth centenary of Bal Thackeray in a grand manner.

The rally reinforced Shinde’s aggressive campaign strategy ahead of the civic elections, blending criticism of Thackeray with promises of development, relief for flood victims, and a vision for Mumbai’s progress.