TNL News Network
Sanjay Raut, Rajya Sabha MP and leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), hit back at Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “nakli” (fake) remarks made about Shiv Sena (UBT) during a rally in Dindori. Addressing a press conference in Mumbai, Raut accused the current Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and PM Modi of attempting to undermine the true Shiv Sena while aligning with those who had “looted” the party.
“The thief himself is speaking, the one who has looted our party is speaking,” Raut said, referring to PM Modi’s remarks. He claimed that Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and the Election Commission had all assisted the Shinde faction in validating their control over Shiv Sena. Raut continued, “We are not fake; they are the supreme thieves. They are lying and running the country. This is why we need a change of government in India to safeguard the constitution.”
Raut also addressed the upcoming political scenario in the state, stating that the real picture would emerge on June 4 when Shiv Sena (UBT), along with its allies NCP-SCP and Congress, would demonstrate their strength. “The country will see where Shiv Sena (UBT) stands and where the BJP actually is,” he added.
Regarding speculation about Mamata Banerjee supporting the INDIA alliance from the outside, Raut welcomed her support. He referred to the West Bengal Chief Minister as “Didi for everybody,” emphasizing that whether she is formally part of the alliance or not, her opposition to the BJP is significant and appreciated.
PM Modi’s comments had included a criticism of the Congress and Shiv Sena factions in Maharashtra, claiming their identities were inauthentic. Speaking in Dindori, Modi also alluded to Shiv Sena’s past ties with Congress, invoking the late Bal Thackeray’s stance on his party merging with Congress.
Raut’s remarks signified a strong rebuttal, underlining the deepening political rift as Maharashtra heads into a critical phase of political competition.
