MUMBAI: In a veiled attack on cousin Raj Thackeray and former ally BJP over the loudspeaker row, chief minister Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday said the Supreme Court order must be applicable “to all religions across the country, and not just azaan”.
“Just like Demonetisation and lockdown during pandemic was applicable all over the country, the Centre must issue a notification and make it (SC order on loudspeaker) applicable across the country. All religions will have to follow the court order, and that would affect playing of bhajans and kirtans, too,” said the CM in an interview during the launch of a news website on Maharashtra Day, adding that the Centre was a party to the petition.
“Balasaheb was gullible. I have been witness to how he was duped from time to time. But I am not gullible,” said the CM, hitting out at the BJP.
Without naming the MNS chief, the CM said, “For the last two years, on account of the pandemic, all theatres and cinemas were closed so if free entertainment is available then why not,” he said. On the numerous claimants for Hindutvawadi, Thackeray said Sena does not need to prove it is Hindutvawadi as that is its life. “There are some who are constantly playing games. Sometimes, it’s Marathi and they demand that those who do not speak Marathi must leave the state... then it is Hinutvawadi.. I do not pay attention to such games,” he said.
Thackeray said post-2002 Godhra riots, Balasaheb Thackeray had staunchly opposed the removal of Modi saying if Modi was replaced, Gujarat would be lost. He said the opposition was surprised the three parties (Sena, Congress and NCP) came together and has even completed half its term. “This alliance will last even after elections, provided no one backstabs. After all, we were in alliance with the BJP for over 25 years,” he said.
