Raj Thackeray Questions Central Government's Support for Iran Amidst Diplomatic Concerns
Thackeray Raises Concerns Over Iran Relations
Raj Thackeray, the leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), has expressed concerns regarding the Indian government's lack of support for Iran. He emphasized that Iran has been a long-standing ally of India, particularly concerning the sensitive issue of Jammu and Kashmir. Thackeray warned that failing to support a reliable ally could lead to serious diplomatic and economic repercussions for India, noting that a significant portion of India's oil imports comes from Iran, which has been supplied in rupees.
Criticism of Government's Response to Iran
During his speech at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Park on the occasion of Gudi Padwa, Thackeray pointed out that there was no official statement from the Prime Minister when Iran was attacked. He also mentioned the absence of any message of condolence or protest following the death of Khamenei. Celebrating the 20th anniversary of the MNS, Thackeray referred to this milestone as a 'divine sign' and expressed confidence that his party would eventually restore Maharashtra's lost glory.
Economic Concerns and Critique of Foreign Policy
In his extensive address, Thackeray discussed the rising debt of the state and the deteriorating urban infrastructure, while sharply criticizing Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy regarding the Iran-Israel conflict. This speech marked his first public address following the MNS's significant defeat in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections, where he had previously collaborated with his cousin, Uddhav Thackeray, to advocate for Marathi pride and the interests of the Marathi people.
Attacking State Government's Financial Management
Turning to domestic issues, Thackeray launched an attack on the state government regarding Maharashtra's financial situation. He highlighted that the state's debt was approximately ₹2 lakh crore during Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan's tenure in 2014, which has now surged to ₹11 lakh crore. He criticized the Chief Minister's claims of a $3 trillion economy and development, arguing that the state is drowning in debt. Thackeray also condemned large-scale infrastructure projects like the coastal road, asserting that they are designed not for the common citizen but to facilitate land acquisition by external entities and major industrialists like Adani.