Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackery has launched a blistering attack on the Election Commission, terming it a “slave” of the Narendra Modi government. He also told his supporters that the party's 'bow and arrow' symbol has been stolen and the thief needs to be taught a lesson, a remark aimed Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Thackeray's outburst came a day after the poll panel allotted the name 'Shiv Sena' and its poll symbol 'bow and arrow' to the group led by CM Shinde. This is for the first time that the Thackeray family has lost control of the party that was founded in 1966 by Bal Thackeray on the principles of justice for the sons of the soil.
"These thieves have stolen the name and symbol of Balasaheb Thackeray's party... It was done on the eve of Maha Shivratri today and Shivaji Jayanti tomorrow. But my 'Sainiks' (soldiers) are with me. We shall not rest till we bury these robbers in the elections," Thackeray said addressing his supporters outside his residence 'Matoshree' at Bandra.
In a sharp attack on the Centre, the former Maharashtra CM said all institutions including the Election Commission have become the slaves of Prime Minister Modi.
"Even the ECI commissioners are behaving like Modi's slaves... probably they may be rewarded with some plum posts after retirement... But the people of Maharashtra know very well who is genuine... I challenge these stealers to come for the electoral battle with the 'Bow-and-Arrow'... We will confront you with our 'Flaming Torch', and teach you a lesson," Thackeray said amid loud rounds of applause.
Thackeray pointed out that though there were similar disputes in the Congress, Samajwadi Party and AIADMK, the original party name or symbol was never allotted to the breakaway faction.
A large number of Thackeray loyalists gathered outside 'Matoshree' in a show of strength and raised slogans against Shinde and in support of Thackeray. Thackeray asked his party leaders to tour the state and mobilise the cadre.
On Friday, soon after the poll panel declared its final ruling, Thackeray had said that he would challenge the order in Supreme Court.
With PTI inputs