In response to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s slogan “Batenge toh katenge” (division will lead to destruction), Samajwadi Party’s Leader of Opposition, Mata Prasad Pandey, strongly emphasized the importance of Hindu-Muslim unity during a rally held on Tuesday in Mumbai’s Saki Naka area.
Speaking to a crowd in the demographically diverse neighborhood, which has a significant Muslim and North Indian population, Pandey stated, “Hindus and Muslims are like the two hands of India and must remain united.” He further urged the public to avoid being swayed by the divisive politics that are reportedly being pushed by the ruling party in Maharashtra.
Pandey also referred to the recent losses faced by the BJP in places such as Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, and Nashik, highlighting the weakening of the party’s influence in areas where Lord Ram is revered. He asserted that these defeats indicate a shifting political landscape in India.
The Saki Naka area, part of the Chandivali Assembly constituency, is witnessing a fierce electoral contest between incumbent Shiv Sena MLA Dilip Lande, Congress leader Arif Khan, and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena’s Mahendra Bhanushali. Samajwadi Party, as a member of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition, is actively participating in the political dynamics of the region. The MVA is a coalition of prominent parties, including Congress, NCP, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray), and others.
Pandey also took aim at Yogi Adityanath’s divisive politics in Uttar Pradesh, which he claimed has failed to gain traction on the ground. He criticized the controversial ‘bulldozer raj’ and the demolition of properties, accusing the UP government of engaging in unfair practices.
Addressing Maharashtra’s political scenario, Pandey criticized the BJP-led government for its failure to act on promises of eradicating corruption. He pointed out that instead of putting corrupt leaders behind bars, the ruling party has forged alliances with them, which he believes undermines the state’s governance.
Pandey further reminded the people of Saki Naka’s 90 Feet Road, primarily inhabited by Hindi-speaking residents, about the historical campaign led by MNS Chief Raj Thackeray in 2008, which targeted north Indians based on language and region. He reminded them that despite such challenges, the MVA coalition had supported the people during that tumultuous time.
In a separate incident, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde faced protests outside Khan’s party office in Jari Mari, where he was shown black flags and labeled a “Gaddar” (traitor). This confrontation escalated into a heated exchange with Republican Party of India (Athawale) District President Sadhu Katke, which later saw Katke switch his allegiance to Shiv Sena (UBT).
This series of events highlights the growing political tension in Maharashtra, with rival factions vying for support across the state.
