The BRICS TimesHeavy rains have wreaked havoc across Maharashtra, especially in Marathwada, causing severe flooding and property damage.
BJP Demands Shiv Sena to Reallocate Dussehra Rally Funds
Maharashtra BJP spokesperson Keshav Upadhye on Monday called on Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray to cancel the party’s annual Dussehra rally. He urged that the money earmarked for the event be redirected to aid flood victims in Marathwada.
Thackeray Urged to Act on Past Inaction
Upadhye reminded that when Thackeray was Maharashtra’s chief minister, he “failed to act and remained at home,” adding that now is the moment to “atone” for past inaction.
Marathwada Faces Severe Flooding
Several areas across Maharashtra, particularly Marathwada, have faced relentless rainfall, resulting in floods and widespread destruction of homes and property.
Dussehra Rally Plans Draw Criticism
The Dussehra rally has been a traditional highlight for Thackeray and the Sena. This year, he is scheduled to speak at Shivaji Park in Mumbai on October 2.
Call for Action Over Sympathy
Upadhye stated, “Marathwada is reeling under severe floods, with people losing everything. Thackeray has toured five districts for three hours and expressed anguish at the pain and suffering. Now is the time for action. He should cancel the Dussehra rally and spend that amount for flood victims. That would give meaning to his expressions of sympathy.”
Past Inaction Underlines BJP Criticism
The BJP leader reiterated that Thackeray “failed to act and remained at home” during his tenure as chief minister. He added, “Cancelling the rally and diverting the funds will show genuine concern for the people.”
Rally Content Faces Scrutiny
Upadhye also criticised the content of Thackeray’s annual rally, noting that it has strayed from its original ideological purpose. “Earlier, under Bal Thackeray, the event had ideological direction. Now, it repeats accusations against others, claiming the party was stolen. Why should ordinary workers spend lakhs for theatrics when the same complaints appear daily in ‘Saamana’?”
Thackeray Visits Flood-Affected Districts
Recently, Thackeray toured five flood-hit districts in Marathwada, meeting residents and listening to their grievances firsthand.
