Shiv Sena Leader Uddhav Thackeray dares Bharatiya Janta Party on 'One Nation, One Election'

Mumbai, July 25: Declaring his intention to soon visit Ayodhya and Varanasi, Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday said he was prepared to accept the ‘One Nation, One Election’ formula propounded by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), provided the Prime Minister, all Chief Ministers and ministers keep off electioneering.

Justifying this contention, he said it was to ensure a level playing field for all the political parties, since after taking the oath as PM, CM or a minister, they represent the whole country and not just a particular group/party. “My father, the late Balasaheb Thackeray, who first floated this theory, said it could ensure free and fair elections only if the elected representatives like the PM, CMs and ministers stay away from the election campaign”, Thackeray said. He pointed out how, as per Election Commission of India (ECI) norms, all government servants are strictly barred from any kind of election canvassing, and if caught, are dismissed. “Then why not their bosses (ministers, CMs, PM) be also held responsible in a similar manner?” The Sena chief wondered how the PM, CMs and ministers are allowed to make big announcements or blatantly use public money to lure the voters. (IANS)