Shiv Sena Spokesperson Criticizes Music at Railway Stations During Chhath Puja

Navi Mumbai, November 14 (Daily Kiran) : Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Avadhesh Shukla has voiced his opposition to the playing of Chhath Puja songs at railway stations, emphasizing that these venues should prioritize passenger convenience and essential railway information rather than music. He stated that the railway should focus on providing basic amenities, timely announcements, and adequate seating for travelers instead of distracting from its shortcomings.

Shukla noted that Chhath Puja is celebrated in various regions of India, including Maharashtra. He reiterated his stance against music being played at railway stations, arguing that announcements should be limited to train schedules and critical information for passengers, as music could cause inconvenience.

He raised concerns about the lack of facilities at many railway stations in Maharashtra, where travelers heading to North India for Chhath faced difficulties finding seating and basic amenities like water. Shukla shared that he personally observed these issues over two days spent at the stations.

He also suggested that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is attempting to create a fearful atmosphere among Hindi-speaking people in light of upcoming elections in Bihar. Supporting Raj Thackeray’s position, Shukla emphasized that he, as an North Indian leader, finds it troubling when tensions arise in Maharashtra, which is his workplace.

Shukla advocated for using appropriate venues for religious events, such as riverbanks, seashores, or temples, where people can perform their rituals without obstruction. He clarified that neither Thackeray nor his party has opposed the worship of Chhath Maiya, and such celebrations have been held with enthusiasm during the Shiv Sena (UBT) governance. He cited Pawai Lake as an example, where many gather for Chhath celebrations.

He further remarked that Chhath is not solely a festival for the people of Bihar but is also embraced by residents of Maharashtra. He compared this to the Ganesh festival celebrated in Uttar Pradesh, emphasizing that it does not warrant the construction of pandals at railway stations. Shukla condemned the politicization of religion, asserting that the BJP campaigns based on religious and caste lines. He criticized the railway minister for not focusing on the needs of passengers traveling to North India during Chhath, questioning the claim of operating 18,000 trains, which he believes is merely on paper.

On the topic of Rahul Gandhi’s phone tapping allegations, Shukla expressed his support, recalling previous instances of phone tapping aimed at intimidating opposition leaders. He accused National Security Advisor Ajit Doval of serious misconduct, asserting that agencies operate under his directives to surveil opposition figures. He referenced security concerns raised during the Pulwama and Pahalgam incidents and alleged connections involving Doval’s son’s company with a Pakistani individual, though he provided no further details.

Shukla concluded by stating that leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Sanjay Raut have faced scrutiny from investigative agencies but remain undeterred. He noted a growing movement among the youth, suggesting a significant protest regarding the SIR issue may unfold soon.