Uddhav, Raj Thackeray to lead Mumbai protest against CEC Gyanesh Kumar
Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS leaders join forces in Mumbai to demand the resignation of CEC Gyanesh Kumar over alleged electoral irregularities.
In a rare and powerful display of political unity, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray are set to lead a massive joint protest march in Mumbai this Sunday. The demonstration is aimed directly at Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Gyanesh Kumar, with opposition leaders demanding his immediate resignation.
A 'Revolt' Against Alleged Electoral Scams
The protest, described by leaders as a 'Garjana Morcha', comes amidst heavy allegations of irregularities in the electoral process. Speaking to the press, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut drew intense parallels to historical uprisings, comparing the current political climate to the revolt of 1857.
Raut launched a scathing attack on the current administration, alleging that democratic institutions are being undermined. "This protest is against the Hitler-rule prevailing in the country, hijacking elections, keeping the Election Commission and the Supreme Court in one's pocket, running a dictatorship, stealing votes, stealing elections, and poaching MPs and MLAs," Raut stated. He further characterized the CEC as acting as an "agent" for the ruling BJP.
The Thackeray Factor: A Symbolic Union
The joint appearance of the two Thackeray brothers is being viewed as a significant turning point for the opposition movement. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Arvind Sawant noted that the presence of both leaders provides immense momentum to the cause of protecting the Constitution.
"That outcry gains real strength the moment the name 'Thackeray' enters the picture," Sawant remarked, emphasizing that the march is a symbolic gesture to address the public's growing anger regarding the sanctity of the vote. The movement operates under the central slogan: "Remove the Election Commission, Save the Country."
Broad Coalition of Opposition Parties
The march is not merely a two-party affair. The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) is providing full backing to the protest, which includes a wide array of political forces. Key participants include:
- Shiv Sena (UBT)
- MNS
- NCP
- Congress
- Left Parties
- Peasants and Workers Party (PWP)
Anil Parab, another Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, clarified that the protest extends beyond political boundaries. He stated that any citizen who feels their constitutional right to vote is being threatened is welcome to join the movement.
Protest Route and Logistics
The march is scheduled to begin from the Metro station and will proceed toward the Municipal Corporation building. Once there, prominent leaders are expected to address the gathering to voice their demands for systemic electoral reform and the resignation of Gyanesh Kumar.
Due to the prevailing heat conditions, organizers have indicated that the rally may conclude earlier than usual to ensure the safety of the participants.