Tue Oct 08 21:55:07 UTC 2024: ## Maharashtra CM Shinde Challenges Uddhav Thackeray: “Compete with Me, Not My Son”
**Thane, Maharashtra:** In a heated exchange, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Sunday publicly challenged Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, urging him to “compete with me, not my son.” This comes in response to Thackeray’s recent comments targeting Shinde’s son, Shrikanth Shinde, who represents the Kalyan Lok Sabha constituency.
“Why are you criticizing someone’s son?” Shinde questioned Thackeray during a public address in Thane. “If you want to compete, come and challenge me. I am just challenging you.” He further alluded that Thackeray’s criticism stemmed from his “inner frustration” regarding his own performance, implying a lack of support for the former CM.
Shinde assured that he will address allegations against him through his work. He drew a comparison between the performance of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government and the current administration, claiming that the latter is transparent and focused on public welfare. He cited the recent decision to increase the salary of 28,000 gram rogar sevaks (rural employment workers) as evidence of the government’s commitment to the people.
This latest exchange follows Thackeray’s recent statements calling out those who left his party, asserting that they would never be welcomed back. He also criticized the BJP-Shinde alliance, claiming the people would reject them in the upcoming elections.
The political tension between the two factions of the Shiv Sena continues to escalate, adding another layer to the already complex political landscape in Maharashtra.
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