The Maharashtra government’s recent decision to raise the salaries of madrasa teachers has ignited a heated political debate, with former Mumbai Mayor and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Kishori Pednekar accusing the ruling parties of adopting a hypocritical approach towards the Muslim community.
Pednekar, a prominent figure in the Shiv Sena (UBT) faction led by Uddhav Thackeray, criticized the BJP and its allies, accusing them of double standards. “On one side, they want to please Muslims by offering these benefits, while on the other side, they continue to speak venomously about them,” Pednekar remarked while addressing the media on Saturday.
She claimed that the BJP and its allies’ actions were driven by political opportunism, and this contradiction was becoming evident to voters. “Muslims and other sections of society are increasingly connecting with leaders like Uddhav Thackeray, Sharad Pawar, and Rahul Gandhi,” she said. “This growing support will be reflected in the upcoming assembly elections, where we are confident of victory.”
Pednekar’s comments come in the wake of the Maharashtra cabinet’s decision to increase the salaries of madrasa teachers, a move seen as an effort to address the needs of the Muslim community. The salary hike was welcomed by various Muslim organizations, which have long demanded better pay for teachers working in madrasas. However, critics argue that the timing of the decision is politically motivated, especially with elections looming on the horizon.
The BJP-led government in Maharashtra has consistently faced allegations of pandering to minority communities for electoral gains, while simultaneously promoting divisive rhetoric. Pednekar’s statements underscored this point, accusing the ruling alliance of using Muslims as a political tool without genuine concern for their welfare.
Meanwhile, BJP leaders have defended the decision, arguing that the salary hike was long overdue and part of a broader effort to ensure equitable pay for educators across the state. They have dismissed Pednekar’s comments as election-season rhetoric aimed at stirring up communal sentiments.
With assembly elections approaching, the political landscape in Maharashtra is becoming increasingly polarized. The alliance between Uddhav Thackeray, NCP chief Sharad Pawar, and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi is positioning itself as a formidable opposition to the BJP, focusing on issues like communal harmony, economic development, and social justice.
Pednekar, echoing this sentiment, added that the people of Maharashtra were growing weary of the BJP’s “divisive tactics” and were ready to support a coalition that prioritizes inclusivity and progress. “Our leadership is committed to uniting communities and providing a brighter future for all sections of society, and that’s why we are seeing growing support,” she said.
As the political temperature in the state rises, the issue of madrasa teachers’ salaries has become another flashpoint in the broader battle for the hearts and minds of Maharashtra’s electorate. The Shiv Sena (UBT) and its allies hope to capitalize on this discontent and make significant gains in the upcoming elections.
