Sanjay Raut: BMC Elections Reflect Changed Mumbai, Not Just Thackeray Brothers’ Contest

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Bhupendra Singh Chundawat

Sanjay Raut: BMC Elections Reflect Changed Mumbai, Not Just Thackeray Brothers’ Contest

Mumbai, January 10: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has dismissed the notion that the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections are merely a contest between the Thackeray brothers. Speaking to a news agency on Saturday, he emphasized that after seven years, significant changes have taken place across political and demographic landscapes.

Changing Dynamics in Mumbai Elections

“If you look at the political situation and demographic changes, you will notice many major shifts. In such a scenario, calling this the Thackeray brothers’ election is not appropriate,” Raut said. He added that if the election has to be defined, it should be called a people-centric election, where the interests of the public are given priority without any compromise.

Mumbai’s Unique Identity and Shiv Sena’s Role

Raut highlighted Mumbai’s distinct character, describing it as a city that houses people from across the country and serves as the economic capital of India. “Mumbai channels economic growth that benefits the entire nation. The legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray has always held prominence here,” he said.

He refuted the claim that both Thackeray brothers are simply contesting the BMC polls, stating instead that their resolve is to protect Mumbai, a mission they are determined to fulfill at any cost.

Security and Political Outlook in Maharashtra

Speaking about Shiv Sena and the BMC elections, Raut pointed out that people from various states reside in Mumbai and many are eager to join their cause. This, he said, indicates a favourable political environment for the party in Maharashtra in the near future.

He further asserted that Mumbai’s security has always been a top priority for Shiv Sena, stating, “When it comes to Mumbai’s safety, people know that as long as Shiv Sena is with them, no one can harm them. We have never compromised on this, nor will we ever.”

Condemnation of BJP Leader’s Remarks

Raut expressed deep regret over BJP leader Annamalai’s remarks during his campaign in Mumbai, where he claimed that the city does not belong to the people of Maharashtra. “This is a very unfortunate and saddening situation. It is surprising that the Maharashtra Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister have not taken any action on this,” he said.

He demanded that the Chief Minister should clarify the matter publicly. “If Mumbai does not belong to the people of Maharashtra, then whose city is it? Is it for people from Pakistan, Bangladesh, or Malaysia? It seems Annamalai either does not understand Mumbai or fled in fear,” Raut remarked.

He called for a police case against Annamalai, accusing him of trying to create division among Mumbai’s residents through his divisive statements. “Such people cannot be accepted under any circumstances,” he concluded.

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