Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday expressed strong disappointment with Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, accusing him of sacrificing his principles in exchange for political power. Speaking at an election rally in Pune ahead of Maharashtra’s November 20 polls, Singh remarked, “I have great respect for the late Balasaheb Thackeray, but seeing Uddhav ji set aside principles for power pains me deeply. Forming a government is not the real achievement. A true leader is one who does not compromise on principles, especially during difficult times.”
Singh’s comments were directed at Uddhav Thackeray’s decision to form an alliance with the Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) under the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government in Maharashtra. The Defence Minister emphasized the importance of integrity in leadership and political decision-making, calling on citizens to remain committed to national unity and progress.”
Unity and development must be the priorities. We must remember that we should neither divide ourselves nor allow division. A united nation leads to progress, and a united Maharashtra will be key to that development,” Singh stated.
Singh also took a sharp jibe at the Congress party, claiming that any political alliance with the grand old party was doomed to fail. “Congress ruled India for many years, but today its condition is so weak that anyone associated with it is bound to fail. In Maharashtra, Congress has relied on Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP, and their eventual downfall is inevitable,” he said.
Echoing the sentiments of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Singh reiterated the slogan, “Batenge toh Katenge” (we will perish if we are divided), stressing the need for unity. “We must avoid division at all costs. A united country will lead us towards development and will create a prosperous Maharashtra,” he added.
The Defence Minister’s comments underscore the BJP’s efforts to emphasize political integrity and national unity ahead of the crucial Maharashtra elections.
