Political Tensions Rise in Maharashtra as Shiv Sena Leaders Clash

Shiv Sena's Internal Conflict Intensifies

On Saturday, Shiv Sena spokesperson Susiben Shah criticized Sanjay Raut for labeling Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde as 'Jaichand.' She attributed the party's division to Raut's actions and urged him to reflect on his behavior over the past few years. Speaking to a news agency, Shah stated that Raut should consider how his conduct contributed to the split within Shiv Sena. She expressed gratitude to the citizens of Maharashtra for their support, which helped the BJP-Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction) alliance emerge as the largest coalition in the BMC elections.

Shah emphasized her appreciation for the citizens of Maharashtra and Mumbai, thanking them for their significant victory. She affirmed the party's commitment to working towards inclusive development and progress.

She also highlighted that the ruling Mahayuti, formed by the BJP and Shiv Sena, holds a majority and has sufficient strength to appoint its mayor in Mumbai. Shah stated that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Eknath Shinde would work together to find a respectful resolution. The conflict arose after Raut's sharp criticism of Shinde following the BMC election results.

Raut's Allegations Against Shinde

Raut accused Shinde of betrayal, claiming that if he had not turned against the party, the BJP would not have been able to establish a foothold in the city's municipal body. He asserted that the Marathi people would remember Shinde as 'Jaichand.' In a social media post, Raut referenced the historical figure Jaichand, a Rajput ruler known for his betrayal of Prithviraj Chauhan by aiding Muhammad Ghori, drawing parallels to Shinde's actions.