Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

Mumbai, Nov 3: Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Monday strongly criticised the Mahayuti government, accusing it of ridiculing the hardships faced by rain and flood-affected farmers across Maharashtra. He demanded that the state immediately implement a farm loan waiver, calling it an urgent necessity rather than a political promise.

Thackeray’s remarks came after deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis stated that a decision on the loan waiver would be taken by June 30 next year. Dismissing the timeline as unacceptable, Thackeray argued that struggling farmers could not wait for months while their debts continue to pile up.

At a press conference in Mumbai, Thackeray questioned the government’s logic behind delaying the waiver.

“Farmers are out on the streets demanding relief. The chief minister says it will come by June. Till then, are farmers expected to keep paying instalments?” he asked. “He even said a loan waiver now would benefit banks — how can it help banks today but not next year?”

The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also announced a four-day tour of flood-affected Marathwada, starting November 5, to personally assess the situation and examine what form of government aid—if any—has reached the victims.

Thackeray also cast doubt on the efficiency of the Central inspection team’s upcoming visit to the disaster-hit regions. “How can the team evaluate the destruction caused by torrential rains and floods in just two or three days? After the visit, when will they send the report and seek relief funds?” he asked.

He further alleged that the state government had not yet submitted a formal proposal to the Centre for financial assistance. “It’s a mockery. Farmers in Palghar have received compensation as low as two rupees under crop insurance. This is not relief — it’s an insult,” Thackeray claimed.

Reiterating his call for immediate action, Thackeray urged the government to announce a farm loan waiver without delay and to provide Rs 50,000 per hectare in aid to affected farmers.

Recalling his tenure as chief minister in 2019, he noted, “During the winter session, I announced a waiver of up to Rs 2 lakh for farmers, and we implemented it successfully. The same system and data exist today — so what stops this government from launching the second phase? We worked transparently and sincerely. This government should do the same.”

Thackeray concluded by saying that the state’s current approach to the agrarian crisis shows insensitivity and misplaced priorities. “Instead of making excuses, the government should stand with the farmers — not mock their misery,” he asserted.