Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday lashed out at the Maharashtra government, questioning why stand-up comedian Kunal Kamra was summoned for allegedly mocking Deputy CM Eknath Shinde, while actor Rahul Solapurkar faced no action for his controversial remarks about Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.

Kamra was recently issued two summons by the Mumbai Police after a parody song in his show, perceived as a dig at Shinde, sparked outrage. The comedian’s parody video led to Shinde supporters storming the recording studio. Calling it a selective action, Thackeray said “He didn’t even name Shinde, yet Kamra is being targeted,” said Thackeray. He also accused the Maharashtra government for shielding Eknath Shinde while ignoring more serious issues.

Kamra vs Solapurkar: Thackeray questions double standards

Thackeray contrasted the swift action against Kamra with the lack of any summons for Rahul Solapurkar, who claimed in a podcast that Shivaji Maharaj escaped from Agra Fort by bribing Mughal officials—an assertion that triggered backlash from some right-wing groups. “Has even one summons been sent to Solapurkar?” Thackeray asked, calling out what he sees as biased governance.

He further questioned Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’s support for Shinde, stating, “The CM is protecting the man Kamra didn’t even name. What right do you have to take action against him?”

BJP’s ‘Saugat-e-Modi’ campaign branded as political gimmick

Thackeray also took aim at the BJP’s Eid outreach campaign, calling the ‘Saugat-e-Modi’ kits distributed to Muslim households nothing more than a ploy for votes. “This is not a gift from Modi but a gift of power—‘Saugat-e-Satta’,” he said. Thackeray also accused the BJP of long using anti-Muslim sentiment and now reversing course for electoral gains. “They should clarify whether they want to feed Muslims or poison them,” he said.

Sharp criticism of handling of past incidents

Speaking at press conference, Thackeray also questioned the state government’s inaction in several incidents like Pune Porsche crash case, saying sarcastically, “He’ll probably be asked to write a 300-word essay.” He also raised questions about the unresolved case of a student’s death in a police encounter in Badlapur and criticised the lack of progress on the Shivaji Maharaj memorial project in the Arabian Sea.

On Thursday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov revealed that arrangements are being made for President Vladimir Putin’s visit to India. Lavrov stated, as per the reports, that “President Vladimir Putin has accepted an invitation to visit from the Indian Prime Minister,” affirming that preparations for this significant visit are currently underway.

During the announcement, Lavrov highlighted the diplomatic ties between the two nations, noting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had made his first foreign trip to Russia after his re-election last year. “Now it’s our turn,” Lavrov remarked, underscoring the reciprocal nature of the visits between the leaders of both countries.

These comments were made during a video address at a conference hosted by the Russian International Affairs Council (RIAC), which focused on the theme “Russia and India: Toward a New Bilateral Agenda.” Although the specific dates for President Putin’s visit have not yet been disclosed, the discussions signal a continued commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.

Earlier in February, there were indications from Tass that Prime Minister Modi might visit Moscow to attend the annual military parade at Red Square, commemorating the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. However, sources familiar with the situation, speaking on the condition of anonymity, informed the Hindustan Times that while an invitation had been extended to Modi, an official visit was not being planned at that time.

In July 2024, Modi made a significant trip to Russia, marking his first visit in almost five years, during which he invited President Putin to India. This forthcoming visit will be particularly noteworthy as it will be Putin’s first trip to India since December 2021, when he participated in an annual summit.

It will also be his first official visit since the outbreak of the war in Ukraine in 2022. The evolving diplomatic landscape between Russia and India continues to attract attention as both nations seek to enhance their strategic partnership.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday spoke about the essential role of honest work in serving the nation, stating that slogans and speeches are not enough. He reflected on his eight years of leadership, during which he believes the state has transformed into a “growth engine.”

Addressing an event for distributing appointment letters to medical officers in the Ayush department, Adityanath pointed out that Uttar Pradesh was once labeled a ‘bimaru’ (sick) state due to ineffective governance rather than the state itself being inherently flawed.

He explained, “Eight years ago, the system was failing. The working methods of previous governments were inadequate, which created a state unable to make effective decisions or deliver results.” Today, he argues, “we see a revitalized Uttar Pradesh characterized by careful and transparent decision-making—qualities that have sparked significant change within the region.”

According to Adityanath, the state has made remarkable strides, especially in administrative reforms. He praised the state’s economic growth, asserting that the bureaucratic inefficiencies that once held it back have now been addressed, positioning Uttar Pradesh as a critical player in India’s overall development. He also highlighted the recent success of the Maha Kumbh, attributing it to a combination of teamwork and technology.

Adityanath spoke proudly of the increasing international recognition of India’s traditional practices, particularly yoga, which has gained traction under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership. “Today, 193 countries celebrate World Yoga Day, showcasing the importance of India’s rich heritage,” he noted.

In discussing the AYUSH system, which promotes ancient health practices, he remarked, “It encourages us not only to treat ailments but to pursue a healthier and longer life.” He emphasized that Uttar Pradesh is leading the charge in this arena, with a growing number of Ayurveda and homeopathy hospitals.

Continuing his remarks, CM Adityanath reiterated that true service to the nation requires diligent work. “Slogans and speeches are empty without action. Delaying our responsibilities means failing to serve our duty,” he asserted.