Shiv Sena (UBT) Leader Announces Health Hiatus
Sanjay Raut, the Rajya Sabha MP and prominent leader of Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction), known for his outspoken criticism of the BJP-led NDA, has announced a temporary withdrawal from public life due to serious health issues. Raut shared the update on X, stating that his health had “suddenly worsened” and he is currently undergoing treatment under strict medical guidance.
Medical Advisory and Recovery Outlook
Raut revealed that doctors have advised him to avoid public gatherings and limit social interactions for the time being. In his post, he expressed gratitude to his supporters for their trust and understanding and assured them of his optimism for a full recovery, hoping to regain good health by the next year.
A Key Opposition Voice in Maharashtra
As a prominent figure in the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT), Raut has been a vocal opponent of the BJP and its allies, often providing sharp commentaries on state and national politics. His temporary absence comes just before a scheduled opposition protest against the Election Commission on November 1, where he was expected to play a significant role.
Recent Political Remarks and Controversy
Just days before his health announcement, Sanjay Raut launched a strong critique of the BJP, accusing the party of relying on “crutches” to maintain power and practicing a “use and throw” approach with its allies. Raut specifically targeted Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s comments about the BJP not needing crutches in Maharashtra, interpreting them as a veiled insult to the Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the NCP group led by Deputy CM Ajit Pawar.
Historical Context and BJP Critique
Sanjay Raut emphasized that the BJP’s rise in Maharashtra was significantly supported by the undivided Shiv Sena and recalled the era of party founder Balasaheb Thackeray, highlighting his support for the BJP as a pro-Hindutva party. He argued that the BJP has historically depended on allies, citing examples like Nitish Kumar in Bihar and the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra. He criticized the BJP for following a “Gujarat pattern” of treating allies as expendable, warning that such political strategies would not endure.
BJP Response
In response to Raut’s remarks, Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis clarified that Shah’s “crutches” comment had been misunderstood, emphasizing that “friends are not crutches.” This exchange highlights the ongoing tensions between the opposition and ruling party factions in Maharashtra.
