Mon Nov 18 05:54:09 UTC 2024: ## Thackeray Accuses BJP of Plot to Secede Mumbai from Maharashtra
**Mumbai, November 18, 2024** – Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray launched a scathing attack on the BJP and the current Maharashtra government during a rally on Sunday, accusing them of plotting to separate Mumbai from the state. Thackeray claimed a recent NITI Aayog blueprint for the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) development, along with an agreement between the MMRDA and the World Economic Forum, aims to undermine the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and ultimately detach Mumbai from Maharashtra.
Thackeray vowed that if the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, which he leads, is elected, it will immediately scrap the MoU and even disband the MMRDA if it oversteps the BMC’s authority. He further alleged that the BJP government is handing over Mumbai’s land to the Adani group and criticized the party’s use of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel’s legacy and Bal Thackeray’s name in their election campaign.
The former Chief Minister also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Ek hai to Safe Hai” slogan, stating that if citizens feel unsafe under Modi’s leadership, he should resign. He accused the BJP of prioritizing Gujarat’s interests over Maharashtra’s, citing the transfer of projects and resources.
Thackeray linked the alleged plot against Mumbai to the June 2022 toppling of his government and the subsequent split in the Shiv Sena, claiming these events were a result of his refusal to allow corruption in the state. He appealed to the voters for justice, referencing the ongoing legal battles facing his party. The UBT leader concluded by urging voters to support the MVA to prevent the alleged destruction of Maharashtra under BJP rule.
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