Eknath Shinde attacks Opposition, emphasizes ‘Maharashtravaad’ Over ‘Parivaarvaad’

Ratnagiri, February 15, 2025: Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde delivered a strong critique of the opposition at a massive Jan Aabhar Melava (public thanksgiving meeting) in Ratnagiri, asserting that while they prioritize dynasty politics, his Shiv Sena remains dedicated to Maharashtra’s progress.

Addressing a crowd of supporters, Shinde stated- “Those who mortgaged Balasaheb Thackeray’s ideology and our bow and arrow for power are now peddling fake narratives. But while they focus on propaganda, we remain committed to real development.”

Shinde accused his rivals of betraying the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray and prioritizing personal gains over the welfare of Maharashtra. He pointed out that several loyal and ambitious Shiv Sainiks were sidelined under the previous leadership, paving the way for a shift in political alignments.

In a significant political development, several key leaders from the Sena (UBT) faction joined Shiv Sena under Shinde’s leadership. Among the notable defectors were:

Former MLA Subhash Bane
District Chief Vilas Chalke
Former Zilla Parishad Member Balsheth Jadhav
Prashant Surve
Taluka Chief Sandeep Sawant

Their shift marked a major boost for Shiv Sena, reinforcing its growing strength in Konkan.

Countering allegations of corruption, Shinde remarked: “For two and a half years, they kept making accusations about ‘boxes,’ but in the elections, the people locked them in those very boxes.”

He further emphasized that the opposition’s main agenda was political survival, whereas his party remained committed to the holistic development of Maharashtra.
“Their agenda is politics, ours is development. Their priority is corruption, ours is Maharashtra first.”

Shinde reassured the public that all welfare schemes initiated by his government, including Ladki Bahin Yojana and Ladka Bhau Yojana, would continue without interruption.

“This government does not make impulsive decisions. Every scheme is carefully planned, and the overwhelming mandate given to Mahayuti proves that the people trust our vision.”

Key Infrastructure Announcements:

The long-awaited Mumbai-Goa Highway will be completed soon.
The Mumbai-Sindhudurg Access Control Express Highway is under development.
A ₹30,000 crore investment in Ratnagiri MIDC will generate 38,000 jobs.
67 TMC of water will be redirected from the Koyna River to support Konkan’s growth.
The establishment of the Konkan Development Authority aims to accelerate regional progress.

Shinde highlighted his vision for Maharashtra:

“Instead of dreaming of making Konkan like California, we should work towards developing Konkan in a way that even California should aspire to be like us.”

Underscoring Shiv Sena’s recent electoral victories, Shinde stated:

Shiv Sena contested 9 seats in Konkan and won 8, while Mahayuti contested 15 and secured 14 seats—a 95% success rate.
Despite claims that his faction would struggle, Mahayuti secured 232 seats, with Shiv Sena winning 60 out of 80.
Shiv Sena received 15 lakh more votes than the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction, proving their strong public support.

Shinde concluded his address with an emotional pledge, reaffirming his commitment to Maharashtra’s people: “Power comes and goes, but once Balasaheb’s name is lost, it cannot be regained. The love and trust of our sisters through Ladki Bahin Yojana is the greatest honour for me. Until my last drop of blood, I will work tirelessly for Maharashtra.”

He called upon Shiv Sainiks to further expand the party’s presence across Maharashtra:

“Increase membership registrations and take Shiv Sena to every home and village. The workers and the people are our greatest strength, and we will never betray their trust.”