03 July,2026 01:00 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Uddhav Thackeray. File Pic
The Shiv Sena (UBT) has criticised the recent political developments in Maharashtra, claiming that the state's political culture has been affected by increasing defections and the pursuit of power.
In an editorial published in party mouthpiece 'Saamana', the Uddhav Thackeray-led party accused the ruling establishments at the Centre and in Maharashtra of encouraging defections and weakening political principles.
The editorial alleged that Maharashtra's earlier political culture, known for ideological differences despite mutual respect, has been replaced by competition for power and positions.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) criticised elected representatives who switch political loyalties and alleged that some leaders were changing sides for money or positions.
"Breaking or buying such helpless and mentally weak individuals requires no bravery," the editorial said.
The party claimed that the ongoing political situation had created disappointment among genuine political workers who entered public life to raise people's issues.
According to the editorial, the current political environment promotes the idea that development work can only be done by remaining close to those in power.
The editorial said that several social workers and leaders in the past carried out their work while maintaining independent views and political principles.
It mentioned social workers and political figures, including Baba Amte, Shivajirao Patwardhan, Dr Abhay Bang, Popatrao Pawar, Dr Prakash Amte, Madhu Dandavate, Nath Pai, Madhu Limaye, Pilu Modi, George Fernandes, Hiren Mukherjee, Ganpatrao Deshmukh and N D Patil.
The party claimed that such leaders would have faced pressure under the current political atmosphere.
According to the editorial, political differences should not prevent individuals from working for society and public causes.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) also targeted Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde over the recent political developments in the state.
The editorial alleged that the ruling alliance was focused on weakening opposition parties instead of strengthening democratic values.
Referring to the recent defection of six Shiv Sena MPs and a Member of the Legislative Council (MLC) to the Shinde-led faction, the Thackeray camp rejected their claims of "political compulsion".
It accused the leaders of prioritising personal interests after receiving political opportunities from their original party.
The editorial claimed that the trend of political defections has affected Maharashtra's tradition of ideological politics and public service.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) alleged that political loyalty and principles were being replaced by short-term gains and power calculations.
It said the current developments should lead to wider discussions on maintaining democratic values and political accountability.
The ruling alliance has repeatedly denied opposition allegations regarding defections and has maintained that leaders joining its side are doing so due to their own political choices.
(With inputs from IANS)
