Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray demanded new elections for the state in his first public speech after Eknath Shield’s takeover. He also stated that he wouldn’t allow the rebels to use the Shiv Sena poll symbol.
I challenge them to have assembly elections. We will be sent home for doing wrong. If this was what you were forced to do, you would have done it 2 1/2 years ago and done it respectfully. All this could have been avoided,” stated Mr Thackeray.
The Shiv Sena’s bow and arrow symbol cannot be taken by anyone. But people do not look at just the symbol; they also look at the person who is holding it,” he stated.
He criticized the Shiv Sena rebel group for not speaking out when the BJP attacked and “abused” him and his family over the past two-and-a half years. Without naming Mr Shinde, he stated that “You stay in touch with them” and “betray your own party this way.”
Some people believe that if Matoshree calls them, they will be there. They have great respect for me. Thank you. You wouldn’t have to travel on this tour if you hadn’t come to my aid. You are now with others who abuse my family. They’ve made threats to our reputation. You have to decide whether your love or respect for the rebels is genuine,” he stated about them.