Kangana Ranaut Defends Eknath Shinde, Criticizes Shankaracharya's Support for Uddhav Thackeray
In a series of posts on X, BJP MP Kangana Ranaut came out in strong support of Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, following Shankaracharya Swami Avimukteshwaranand Saraswati's claim that Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray was a "victim of betrayal."
Ranaut argued that political alliances, treaties, and party divisions are normal and constitutional. She questioned why politicians should not engage in politics, asking if they should instead sell "golgappas."
She further cited religious principles, stating that if a king exploits his subjects, treason becomes the ultimate religion. This statement was likely in response to the Shankaracharya's emphasis on the sin of betrayal and his support for Thackeray.
Ranaut also criticized the Shankaracharya for using derogatory words against Shinde, accusing him of being a traitor. She felt that this statement hurt the sentiments of many and misused the Shankaracharya's influence and religious education.
The controversy stems from the collapse of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government led by Uddhav Thackeray in June 2022. Eknath Shinde's rebellion and subsequent split within the Shiv Sena led to the formation of a new government with the BJP, making Shinde the Chief Minister.
This political upheaval has sparked various reactions, including the Shankaracharya's support for Thackeray and Ranaut's staunch defense of Shinde. The debate surrounding betrayal, religion, and political maneuvering continues to unfold.