The Samajwadi Party (SP) announced its exit from Maharashtra’s Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance after a controversial statement by Milind Narvekar, a close aide of Uddhav Thackeray. On the 32nd anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition, Narvekar posted a photograph of the mosque, accompanied by a quote from Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray that read, “I am proud of those who did this.”
— Milind Narvekar (@NarvekarMilind_) December 5, 2024
The post, which also included images of Uddhav and Aaditya Thackeray, sparked outrage. SP leaders Abu Asim Azmi and Rais Shaikh criticized the remarks and declared their separation from the MVA. Azmi stated, “Samajwadi Party cannot align with communal ideology,” emphasizing the party’s commitment to secular values.
Narvekar’s comments led to further scrutiny of the MVA’s principles. Rais Shaikh questioned the alliance’s integrity, stating, “If such radical ideologies surface, we must reconsider our association.” He demanded an explanation from Shiv Sena (UBT) for endorsing such sentiments.
The MVA, formed on the basis of secularism and constitutional values, faced backlash for this controversy. Newly-elected SP MLAs defied the alliance’s boycott of the Maharashtra Assembly’s oath-taking ceremony. They distanced themselves from the MVA while pledging to protect democratic ideals.
Meanwhile, the ruling Mahayuti alliance, led by the BJP and its partners, celebrated a sweeping victory in the elections. Allegations of electoral manipulation through Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) were raised by MVA leaders, including Aaditya Thackeray and Nana Patole. They staged a walkout during the oath-taking ceremony, alleging that democracy had been undermined.
The controversy underscores the fragility of alliances based on conflicting ideologies, with the Samajwadi Party reaffirming its secular stance amidst political turbulence in Maharashtra.
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