MNS chief warns that religious issues could be used to divert public attention from economic and social problems; urges people not to let religious extremism cloud their judgment
Mumbai : Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has urged citizens to remain alert during the upcoming Ganeshotsav celebrations, claiming that attempts could be made to provoke communal violence and create social unrest.
Speaking at a meeting of MNS office-bearers in Thane on Sunday, Thackeray said the situation facing the country was serious and alleged that religious issues could be deliberately used to divert public attention from pressing economic and social concerns.
He appealed to what he described as sensible and responsible citizens to remain cautious and not get trapped in attempts to create communal tension.
‘Do not allow religious extremism to blind us’
Thackeray said the country was facing economic difficulties while religion was increasingly being brought to the forefront of public discourse.
He argued that citizens should not allow religious extremism to cloud their judgment, particularly during major festivals when large numbers of people gather in public places.
According to Thackeray, people are being kept occupied with issues related to religion and caste while more serious problems affecting the country are being overlooked.
He also warned that if the current situation continues, there could come a time when large numbers of people take to the streets.
Raj Thackeray raises concerns over jobs and economic situation
During his address, the MNS chief claimed that 503 foreign companies had shut down their operations in India between 2021 and 2026.
He linked this claim to broader concerns about unemployment and the country’s economic situation, alleging that religious issues were being brought into the spotlight to divert attention from such problems.
Thackeray also cited several other concerns, including students who study in the United States and Europe and do not return to India, entrepreneurs leaving the country, farmer suicides, rising suicide rates among young people and a lack of employment opportunities for the youth.
These figures and claims were cited by Thackeray during his speech and represent his assessment of the situation.
‘Do not put anyone’s photograph alongside great personalities’
Thackeray also spoke about the placement of photographs of political leaders alongside those of prominent historical and social figures.
He said photographs of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, Dr B.R. Ambedkar and Mahatma Jyotiba Phule should not have anyone else’s photograph placed alongside them.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Thackeray said that if his photograph needs to be displayed for protocol or other reasons, it should be placed on a separate wall rather than alongside these personalities.
He stressed that the contribution and stature of these historical figures should be respected.
Question over GDP growth and gold purchases
Thackeray also questioned the economic narrative surrounding India’s growth rate.
Referring to the reported 7.8 per cent GDP growth, he questioned why people were being advised against purchasing gold if the economy was performing as strongly as claimed.
He also referred to recent appeals asking Indians to reduce foreign travel and questioned the reasoning behind such advice.
Thackeray argued that people generally begin focusing more heavily on savings when household finances come under pressure.
His comments reflected his broader criticism of the government’s economic messaging and its handling of issues concerning ordinary citizens.
Appeal for caution during Ganeshotsav
With Ganeshotsav approaching, Thackeray’s central message was an appeal for caution and restraint.
He claimed that attempts could be made to use religious sentiments to create tension and divert attention from economic and social challenges.
The MNS chief urged citizens to remain alert, avoid falling for provocative narratives and ensure that religious differences do not lead to conflict or communal unrest.
His remarks come amid heightened political debate in Maharashtra over religion, identity, economic conditions and social harmony ahead of the festival season.
