If Congress Returns, Streets Will Mirror the 1970s Emergency Era – Raj Thackeray at Pune rally

Reported By Varad Bhatkhande

Pune, 10th May 2024: For the campaign of Mahayuti’s Pune Lok Sabha candidate Murlidhar Mohol, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray held a meeting today in Sarasbaug, Pune, in preparation for the upcoming Lok Sabha Elections.

Minister of Higher and Technical Education of Maharashtra Chandrakant Patil, Rajya Sabha MP Medha Kulkarni, MNS Leader Amit Thackeray, Actor and Director Praveen Tarde, among others, were present.

Mohol, representing the BJP, is contesting against Congress leader Ravindra Dhangekar from Mahavikas Aghadi and Vasant More from Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi.

During the meeting, MNS Chief Raj Thackeray voiced pointed criticisms of former Maharashtra CM Sharad Pawar, saying, “When Sharad Pawar departed from the Congress in 1999 and founded the NCP, it marked the onset of caste-based politics in Maharashtra. As a result of this focus on caste, development issues have been sidelined, and people continue to be stirred up by caste-related matters. While I may have some differences with Ajit Pawar, one thing I must acknowledge is that he has never introduced caste into politics. This is surprising, considering that he used to spend a considerable amount of time with his uncle, Sharad Pawar.”

He further said, “In previous elections, there were numerous significant events such as the Emergency, the assassination of Indira Gandhi, the Bofors Scam, the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi, the Babri Masjid controversy and the subsequent bomb blasts, the Kargil war, 26/11, and more. However, this is the first election I recall without any major issues. Despite the absence of significant issues, individuals are stepping forward and using derogatory language in their speeches. Such politics is entirely unsuitable for Maharashtra.”

Thackeray stated, “Today, public figures in Maharashtra are delving into irrelevant topics, resulting in cities being mismanaged without proper planning. Pune is witnessing a significant influx of migrants. Without adequate planning, this city is at risk of deterioration. I’ve learned that the population of Pune has surged to around 75 lakhs in recent times, far exceeding its capacity. A city ideally requires 15% of its area dedicated to roads according to its population, but in Pune, it’s merely 7 to 8%.”

He continued, “In addition to migration, talented youth from here are also choosing to move abroad. Despite having access to quality education and good job opportunities, they dislike the political atmosphere here, which permeates every aspect of life. As I’ve mentioned before, if proper planning and a conducive atmosphere are not improved, Pune may face the same fate as Mumbai, which has suffered due to similar issues.”

Turning to Mohol standing beside him on the stage, he remarked, “For people representatives like you, I have an instruction: please plan this city accordingly to save it and develop it.” He urged the public to ensure that every candidate of Mahayuti wins along with Mohol.

He then redirected his attention to Congress, stating, “Congress is engaging in religious politics, urging Muslims of this country to vote for them. While some Muslims in this country may align with Congress, others are well-educated and successful in business, capable of making informed decisions. If Congress comes to power again, the times will revert to those of the 1970s, 80s, and 90s, reminiscent of the emergency, making it hard for people to even roam the streets. I assert today that it was solely due to PM Narendra Modi’s efforts that the Ram Mandir came to fruition.”

Minister Chandrakant Patil said, “Raj Thackeray has graciously agreed to hold three meetings in unconditional support of us. One he held for Rane, one he held today, and one he will hold with Prime Minister Modi in Mumbai on the 17th. I am grateful to him, especially for the one he is conducting in Pune now for our Murlidhar Mohol.”

Pune Lok Sabha candidate Mohol stated, “I pledge to transform Raj Thackeray’s vision for Pune into reality once I assume the role of MP and head to Delhi. On Gudi Padwa, when Raj Thackeray announced unconditional support for PM Modi, MNS workers in Pune commenced working tirelessly day and night. Your support has been a victory for us, but achieving victory in Pune together will be an even greater triumph.”

Rain couldn’t dampen the spirits at Mohol’s meeting

Raj Thackeray always garners immense crowd support during his speeches. However, when heavy rain pelted Pune today in the afternoon, many feared the rally might be cancelled. Fortunately, the rain subsided, although the streets were still waterlogged. Despite the inclement weather, a large number of people turned up to witness Thackeray campaigning for Mohol.