Mumbai, June 19: Today marks the 60th anniversary of the Shiv Sena party. The faction led by Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray has issued a statement reflecting on the numerous attempts to weaken the party over the past six decades. They assert that the fear of Shiv Sena among its opponents has led to the formation of various parallel factions, which have ultimately failed. However, the foundation laid by Balasaheb Thackeray and the ideology he established remain steadfast.
In an editorial published in the party’s mouthpiece, ‘Saamana’, the recent rebellion of six MPs was addressed indirectly. It stated that many fake organizations driven by commercial interests continue to emerge, but Shiv Sena was never founded as a business venture. The editorial emphasized that the party’s leader ensured that it never turned into a commercial entity. Opportunistic individuals have been shown the door over time to preserve the essence of Marathi identity and Hindutva, which still resonates in the valleys of Maharashtra today.
The editorial highlighted that Shiv Sena has taught the Marathi community to live with dignity. It instilled confidence in the people to assert, “This Mumbai is ours.” The party empowered ordinary citizens by electing them as councilors and establishing a robust network of branches that functioned like family courts for the public. Shiv Sainiks tirelessly worked to resolve issues related to roads, water, school admissions, hospital assistance, and ration cards. They were always the first to respond to any incident of injustice.
Under Uddhav Thackeray’s leadership, Shiv Sena has accused opponents of intensifying efforts to undermine Maharashtra’s pride and the state’s self-esteem in recent years. The editorial noted that since the party’s inception, individuals motivated by political ambition have repeatedly betrayed it. Despite this, Shiv Sena has endured these attacks and reached its current stature, as its adversaries lacked the courage to confront it directly. The editorial referenced Balasaheb Thackeray’s remark about the numerous wounds on his back, indicating that there is no room left for new ones.
The editorial asserted that Shiv Sena has redefined the concept of social service. Whether it was a local accident or a bomb blast, Shiv Sainiks were always the first to arrive for relief efforts. Through blood donation camps, educational initiatives, health camps, and the distribution of free books and stationery, the party reached every household. By working selflessly, Shiv Sena became the greatest support for workers and laborers.
According to the editorial, this commitment to public service has solidified Shiv Sena’s presence in municipal corporations, the Maharashtra Assembly, and Parliament. The party has empowered ordinary citizens to become legislators, MPs, and ministers, symbolizing Maharashtra’s pride.
As the party enters its 60th year, it also carries a sense of pain. While a dedicated army of workers has always stood by the party, some opportunistic and self-serving individuals have left for personal gain. This is seen as a symbol of the moral decline in current politics.
Just as Shiv Sena has spread the message of Marathi identity in the Sahyadri valleys, it has also awakened the entire Hindu community with the call of Hindutva. From Malanggad to the Ayodhya movement, Shiv Sena has made significant sacrifices in the fight for Hindutva. The editorial questioned whether those who now claim to be the biggest supporters of Hindutva have contributed even a fraction of what Shiv Sena has.
In conclusion, the editorial stated that just as it is said about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj that without him, the identity of Hindus would have vanished, Balasaheb Thackeray carried forward that legacy and prioritized the integrity of the nation. “Nation First” has always been Shiv Sena’s enduring mantra, a sentiment that continues to resonate today and will do so in the future. Shiv Sena is immortal.
Leave a Comment