Eknath Shinde, the Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, criticized Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday for allegedly exploiting the suffering of flood and rainfall-affected farmers for political purposes. Shinde referred to Thackeray’s rally in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar as a show of insincere sympathy, labeling it as “crocodile tears.”
During the rally, Thackeray warned that farmers would resort to protests against the Devendra Fadnavis government if it did not declare a complete loan waiver for farmers who lost their crops in recent floods.
In response, Shinde accused Thackeray of using farmers’ distress for political mileage and criticized the opposition for politicizing the situation. He emphasized that the Mahayuti government focuses on practical solutions rather than mere slogans.
Recently, extensive areas in Maharashtra were submerged due to floods, leading to the evacuation of over 41,000 residents from flood-affected regions such as Solapur, Jalna, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar, and Dharashiv.
Shinde took a swipe at the former chief minister, highlighting that those who never ventured out of their comfort zones were now advocating for farmer marches. He commended the BJP-led Mahautyi government for consistently supporting farmers during various crises.
The state government announced a relief package totaling Rs 31,628 crore, with immediate assistance of Rs 10,000 being provided to farmers before Diwali. Furthermore, farmers facing crop losses will receive Rs 48,000 per hectare and up to Rs 3.47 lakh per hectare under the MGNREGA scheme.
Shinde also mentioned the collaborative efforts between the state and central governments, spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah, to ensure comprehensive support for all affected farmers.