Sindhudurg, Maharashtra / Coresspondent – Shinde faction leader and state minister Deepak Kesarkar criticized Uddhav Thackeray for referring to Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis as “Annaji Pant” during a recent political rally in Mumbai. Kesarkar labeled the remark as an “insult” to the constitutional position of the Chief Minister.
The comment was made during a joint rally of Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, who have united over issues like the opposition to the imposition of Hindi and the preservation of the Marathi language. Uddhav Thackeray’s jibe at Fadnavis drew strong reactions from the Shinde camp.
“Referring to the Chief Minister as ‘Annaji Pant’ undermines the dignity of the office. You may criticize ideologically in politics, but personal attacks should be avoided,” said Kesarkar.
He also expressed skepticism about the unity between Raj and Uddhav Thackeray, hinting at past betrayals.
“Raj came out because of injustice. Now that he is with Uddhav again, I hope he doesn't face the same injustice. I have personally experienced Uddhav’s ‘use and throw’ policy. He used me against Narayan Rane and later discarded me,” Kesarkar alleged.
Kesarkar further criticized Uddhav Thackeray for distancing himself from the core ideology of Balasaheb Thackeray, stating that this was the reason many MLAs left his side.
“Uddhav has moved away from Balasaheb’s ideology. That’s why his MLAs deserted him. Balasaheb never supported an alliance with Congress. Uddhav violated that principle. Raj Thackeray’s next move will show whether he is following Balasaheb’s path or not,” Kesarkar said.
He also asserted that Eknath Shinde has remained true to Balasaheb’s vision, and now Uddhav Thackeray is relying on Raj’s support to regain lost ground.
“The original party and its workers are with us. That’s why Uddhav now needs Raj. As for who holds power on the streets – I won't comment. Everyone must follow the law. I only hope there is no violence or unrest in the state,” Kesarkar concluded.
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