In a dramatic turn of events recently at Mumbra, citizens witnessed a heated confrontation between hundreds of workers representing two factions of the Shiv Sena party. The factions, led by Uddhav Thackeray and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, clashed over the proposed visit of Thackeray to a party 'shakha' that had been demolished by Shinde Sena workers just a few days prior. Uddhav Thackeray's visit to the 'shakha' faced strong resistance from Shinde Sena workers, who displayed black flags and voiced slogans of protest against his presence. The tension escalated to a point where the police had to intervene, requesting Thackeray and his party colleagues to vacate the area, stopping them just meters away from the site.
Thackeray's Strong Words in Press Conference
During a subsequent press conference, Uddhav Thackeray criticized Shinde Sena for allegedly utilizing police resources to demolish the 'shakha' controlled by Sena (UBT). In a firm statement, he accused them of abusing their power and asserted that the police had been rendered powerless due to pressure from Shinde Sena. Meanwhile, Thackeray went on to refer to Shinde Sena as "thieves" and called on the police not to serve "thieves." He boldly proclaimed that those in power responsible for the demolition of their 'shakha' would face consequences in the upcoming elections. He even challenged Shinde to confront Sena (UBT) on the ground without police protection.
Police Intervention and Sloganeering
As Thackeray and senior party leaders reached the location where both factions of Sena workers had gathered, the police prevented them from proceeding to the 'shakha' site, citing concerns of potential unrest. Thackeray acquiesced and turned back, with a heavy police presence and barricades in place to maintain order. Both factions of Sena workers engaged in a vocal exchange of slogans, with Thackeray's supporters expressing their backing for him, while Shinde Sena workers vehemently protested his visit.
A Plea to the Public
In a bid to rally public support, Thackeray urged the residents of Thane to reject the "thieves" during the upcoming elections and take action against them. He asserted that the 'shakha' in question rightfully belonged to Sena (UBT) and instructed his party members to assemble at the site and remove the structure erected by Shinde Sena. On the other hand, Thackeray had also originally planned to visit the Mumbra 'shakha' to demonstrate his solidarity with local Sena (UBT) workers. In a show of support, NCP's Jitendra Awhad and Congress supporters also gathered alongside Thackeray.
Meanwhile, Shinde Sena leader and former Thane Mayor Naresh Mhaske declared that his party intended to assume control of all 'shakhas' previously affiliated with the undivided party, citing alleged "inappropriate activities." Mhaske insinuated that Thackeray's visit was orchestrated by Jitendra Awhad, pointing out that welcoming posters for the former chief minister lacked images of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray and Thane strongman Anand Dighe from the undivided party.
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