Mumbai: On Friday, Raj Thackeray, the leader of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), released the party’s election manifesto, outlining several commitments for the betterment of the people if his party comes to power.
In the manifesto, titled “Ham Yeh Karenge” (We Will Do This), MNS has promised to focus on key areas such as drinking water, women’s safety, education, employment, electricity, waste management, internet access, recreational spaces, and boosting the state’s industrial growth.
Additionally, MNS has committed to promoting Marathi identity, Marathi literature, and the preservation of forts and heritage sites in Maharashtra. The manifesto also includes plans to enrich places related to the state’s history and culture.
Addressing the release of the manifesto, Raj Thackeray remarked, “Today, I am releasing my party’s manifesto. Usually, political parties are required to inform the Election Commission about how many copies of their manifesto have been printed. However, I find this requirement quite ridiculous.”
Thackeray also announced that he would not hold the proposed rally on November 17, citing limited time for preparation. “I only have one and a half days left, so completing all preparations for the rally is not feasible. Instead, I will address rallies in Thane and Mumbai,” he stated.
On the issue of women’s welfare, Thackeray expressed concern over announcements made by both the Maha Yuti (BJP-led alliance) and Maha Vikas Aghadi (Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress alliance) regarding financial assistance for women. He questioned the practicality of such promises without considering the state’s economic situation. Thackeray emphasized that any steps taken for women’s empowerment must not put undue financial pressure on the state’s economy.
Both political alliances have already released their manifestos, which include proposals for financial aid to women. The Maha Yuti has promised Rs. 2100 per woman and a target to make 50 lakh women “Lakpati Didis” by 2027.
The elections for Maharashtra’s 288 assembly seats will take place in a single phase on November 20, with results scheduled to be announced on November 23. This will determine which alliance will form the next government in the state.
