The Shiv Sena (UBT) has openly criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for its vehement opposition to the election of Syed Iqbal, a Muslim, as the mayor of Parbhani. In an editorial published in the party's mouthpiece, Saamana, the Shiv Sena (UBT) characterized the BJP's attack as indicative of their mental bankruptcy, suggesting that their reaction stems from a deep-seated insecurity regarding Muslim representation in local governance.
The editorial highlighted a stark contrast between BJP's tolerance of Muslim representation in their ranks and their outrage when the Shiv Sena (UBT) appoints a Muslim mayor. It pointed out that while actor Salman Khan can be seen in the company of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh chief Mohan Bhagwat, the BJP seems to have a problem with a Marathi-speaking Muslim being elected as a mayor. This hypocrisy, the editorial claims, undermines the BJP's credibility.
- First Muslim mayor in Parbhani — Syed Iqbal's election marks a significant milestone for the Shiv Sena (UBT).
- Accusations of inciting division — The Shiv Sena (UBT) accused the BJP of fostering communal tensions.
- Historical context — The editorial reminds readers of the Muslim heritage of early BJP leaders.
Moreover, the editorial noted that while the BJP has been vocal about Iqbal's election, they conveniently overlook the fact that many BJP corporators are also Muslims. In Parbhani, for instance, there are 12 Muslim corporators within the BJP. The Shiv Sena (UBT) argued that the BJP's criticisms are not only hypocritical but also detrimental to communal harmony, suggesting that the BJP's approach is inciting unnecessary conflict between Hindus and Muslims.
In a broader context, the editorial called for unity among communities and condemned the divisive tactics employed by the BJP. The Shiv Sena (UBT) emphasized that the real danger to Hindus is not from Muslim representation in local governance but rather from the BJP's divisive rhetoric and policies, which they believe create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity for the majority community in India.