In a significant political fallout, the Samajwadi Party (SP) announced its exit from the Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance on Saturday. The decision came after a Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, close to party chief Uddhav Thackeray, publicly hailed the demolition of the Babri Masjid.
Triggering the Rift
Maharashtra SP president Abu Asim Azmi expressed outrage over a controversial newspaper advertisement by the Shiv Sena (UBT) and a social media post by party MLC Milind Narvekar. The advertisement congratulated those responsible for the mosque’s demolition, while Narvekar’s post on platform X (formerly Twitter) featured a photo of the demolition alongside Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray’s statement, “I am proud of those who did this.” The post also included images of Uddhav Thackeray, Aaditya Thackeray, and Narvekar himself.
Azmi did not mince words while announcing the party’s decision. “If anyone in the MVA speaks this language, what is the difference between the BJP and them? Why should we stay with them?” he questioned. He also confirmed discussions with SP national president Akhilesh Yadav regarding the move.
SP’s Stand
The Samajwadi Party, which has two MLAs in the Maharashtra assembly, has been a critical ally in the opposition MVA bloc alongside the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT). However, the party has made it clear that communal provocations, even within the alliance, are unacceptable.
“This is a matter of principle,” Azmi stated. “The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader’s actions directly contradict the inclusive politics we stand for.”
Fallout and Political Implications
The SP’s departure from the MVA could weaken the opposition alliance, already under pressure to counter the BJP-led government in Maharashtra. It also raises questions about the Shiv Sena (UBT)’s strategy, as it risks alienating secular allies in its effort to uphold its Hindutva legacy.
With the 2024 general elections on the horizon, the incident underscores the fragile balance within opposition alliances navigating ideological differences. The move by the SP not only reflects a fracture in the MVA but also sends a broader message about the challenges of maintaining unity amidst diverging political ideologies.
