Mumbai, May 1 In a scathing attack on the current administration, Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee President Harshvardhan Sapkal alleged that there is a deliberate conspiracy by the ruling MahaYuti alliance to transform progressive Maharashtra, built on the ideals of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Shahu, Phule, and Ambedkar, into a "cow belt".
Speaking at the flag-hoisting ceremony held today to mark Maharashtra Day and Labour Day, Sapkal called upon citizens to unite against forces attempting to "pollute the culture of Maharashtra" (Maharashtra Dharma) by instigating communal and caste-based conflicts.
After extending his greetings to the public and the workforce, Sapkal emphasised the state's rich heritage. He stated that this land is shaped by the thoughts of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Rajarshi Shahu Maharaj, Mahatma Jyotirao Phule, and Babasaheb Ambedkar, adding that it is a land blessed by the Warkari sect’s teachings of equality.
However, he warned that this identity is under threat. He claimed that processes such as delimitation are being used to reduce Maharashtra’s political significance at the national level.
He accused the government of orchestrating divisions between castes and religions to distract from real issues. He argued that while the government pays lip service to women's reservation, its actual decisions are detrimental to the interests of Marathi people and the state.
Taking a dig at the government’s promotional narratives, Sapkal remarked that the real "Missing Link" is found in the state's administration.
He said there is a visible “Missing Link” in law and order, administration, women’s safety, drought management, and the fight against corruption, adding that, instead of rhetoric, the government needs to engage in some soul-searching to fill these gaps.
Regarding the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, Sapkal reaffirmed its strength. He cited the saintly verse, "Ekameka Sahaya Karu, Avaghe Dharu Supanth" (Let us help each other and choose the right path together).
He noted that Congress is prepared to lead based on its numerical strength. He emphasised that the INDIA bloc is a formidable force nationally, and ally parties have recognised the need for the Congress to have appropriate representation within the state.
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