Eknath Shinde Slams Uddhav Thackeray Faction Over Shiv Sena Bow-and-Arrow Symbol

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief leader Eknath Shinde on Tuesday launched a sharp attack against the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), accusing the faction of attempting to erase the ideology and Hindutva legacy of the late Balasaheb Thackeray.

Speaking to reporters upon arriving in New Delhi against the backdrop of the ongoing Supreme Court hearing concerning the Shiv Sena party and its election symbol, Shinde stated that the bow-and-arrow symbol was extremely dear to Balasaheb Thackeray, who used to worship it.

Shinde alleged that the rival faction had compromised on core principles in the past. He stated that in 2019, the opposing faction froze Balasaheb's ideology, Hindutva, the mandate of the people of Maharashtra, and even the party constitution, and is now demanding that the bow-and-arrow symbol be frozen as well.

Addressing the ongoing legal proceedings, Shinde noted that the Supreme Court hearing involves multiple critical issues, including the Constitution of India, the party constitution, and the statutory powers of the Election Commission of India. He affirmed that once arguments begin on behalf of the Shiv Sena, all questions raised during the proceedings will be answered.

During his visit to the national capital, Shinde is also scheduled to address a meeting of Shiv Sena's state-level chiefs to review and discuss organizational matters.

Touching upon other issues, Shinde addressed discussions surrounding Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. He noted that the Prime Minister has always held Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj in the highest regard, highlighting the establishment of the Maratha ruler's royal seal on the Indian Navy's ensign. He added that photographs of the President and the Prime Minister are displayed in government offices strictly as a matter of protocol.

Shinde also spoke on the Maratha reservation issue, reiterating that the Mahayuti government remains committed to securing justice for the Maratha community without causing injustice to any other section of society. He cited steps taken during his tenure as Chief Minister, including the provision of 10 percent reservation, the establishment of a commission for issuing Kunbi certificates, and interest-free loans through the SARTHI initiative and the Annasaheb Patil Economic Development Corporation. He also urged Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil, who is on a hunger strike, to adopt a positive approach.