The Shiv Sena on Thursday accused the BJP of using Hindutva ideologue Veer Savarkar as a "shield" to play the politics of neo-nationalism. Terming the BJP's love for Savarkar as "fake", the Sena said that instead of targeting the Maharashtra government, the state BJP leaders should ask why the party- ruled Centre has failed to honour the freedom fighter so far. It also said that if the BJP thought that it could corner the Sena over the issue of Savarkar, then it was mistaken.

"The BJP leaders in Maharashtra declared that they would target the (state) government on the issue of Veer Savarkar. This makes it clear that Savarkar is not a subject of respect or faith for the BJP, but just a political issue," the Sena said in its editorial in party mouthpiece 'Saamana'. "Veer Savarkar is not merely a subject of discussion, but he should be practised in life. Savarkar's life symbolised sacrifice, principles, radiance and struggle," it added.