Rival factions within the Shiv Sena engaged in a tense confrontation at the memorial of the party’s founder, the late Bal Thackeray, situated at Shivaji Park. The incident unfolded as Chief Minister Eknath Shinde paid his respects at the site on the eve of the supremo’s death anniversary, drawing heated clashes between opposing party workers shortly after his departure.
Sloganeering and verbal confrontations echoed through the air as workers from different factions clashed, prompting immediate police intervention to avert potential violence. This clash follows a recent altercation in Mumbra, where Shiv Sena (UBT) workers obstructed Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) chief Uddhav Thackeray’s visit to a demolished shakha.
On the eve of November 17, a customary day when the Thackerays accompanied by party members pay homage at the Shivaji Park memorial, Chief Minister Shinde chose an earlier visitation time to avoid direct confrontation. Accompanied by MP Rahul Shewale, MLA Sada Sarvankar, and other leaders, Shinde’s visit was met with a retaliatory presence from the Thackeray faction upon learning of his arrival.
While the chief minister had departed, fervent sloganeering and confrontation erupted between the Thackeray loyalists and the opposing faction. The situation escalated to physical shoving among workers, necessitating police intervention to maintain order.
Efforts by leaders from both factions—Anil Desai, Anil Parab from the Thackeray faction, and Sada Sarvankar from the opposing side—were made to calm the situation. However, accusations and counter-accusations emerged post-incident, with spokespersons from each side alleging misbehavior by the other.
Sheetal Mhatre of the Shinde faction decried the disruption, asserting that their peaceful tribute was disrupted by Uddhav Thackeray’s workers. In contrast, Thackeray faction leader Kishori Pednekar refuted the allegations, emphasizing the provocative actions of the Shinde faction.
Expressing disappointment, Sena (UBT) MLA Aaditya Thackeray condemned the actions of what he referred to as a “traitors’ group,” affirming their efforts to prevent any misconduct.
While the joint commissioner of police (law and order) assured appropriate action, Chief Minister Shinde lamented the incident’s timing on such a significant day for Shiv Sena supporters.
Sources By Agencies
