Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday (September 16, 2025) strongly criticized the BJP for permitting India to play against Pakistan in the Asia Cup. He said the decision weakened India’s global position against terrorism, especially after the recent Pahalgam terror attack that shook the nation. For him, allowing the game amounted to hypocrisy and exposed the ruling party’s “false nationalism.”
India won the high-profile match against Pakistan by seven wickets on September 14. However, Thackeray argued that victory on the pitch could not hide the larger issue of credibility. “When we tell the world that Pakistan promotes terror, the obvious question arises: why do you still maintain sporting ties? If you are truly against them, then cut every link,” he told reporters.
The Asia Cup clash drew mixed reactions nationwide. While fans celebrated the win, political leaders and civil society groups questioned the moral stance of engaging Pakistan in sports while blaming them for terrorism. Thackeray’s remarks reflected growing anger among sections of the public who felt the government failed to match words with actions.
The Sena (UBT) chief also targeted the Eknath Shinde-led faction of Shiv Sena for backing the BJP. He said their silence showed they cared only about clinging to power. “They love their chair, not the country,” he remarked.
Switching to state matters, Thackeray launched a scathing attack on Maharashtra’s financial management. He highlighted that the state’s debt burden has crossed ₹9 lakh crore and warned that lavish projects and new schemes serve contractors more than citizens. Experts have also cautioned that such high levels of debt could impact welfare spending, reduce investor confidence, and increase the long-term tax burden on citizens.
He further demanded urgent relief measures for farmers hit by heavy rains and floods. Thackeray argued that ignoring rural distress would harm both the economy and society. He urged the government to prioritize farmers’ welfare and redirect resources toward real needs.
By linking national security concerns with Maharashtra’s fiscal health, Thackeray positioned himself as a strong voice of opposition. His comments added fuel to the ongoing debate on patriotism, governance, and economic priorities in the state.
