The All India Ulama Board has criticised Shiv Sena-UBT for displaying banners on December 6, commemorating the demolition of Babri Masjid. The Board has called on Congress and Sharad Pawar’s NCP to sever their alliance with Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena-UBT, citing the party’s actions as contradictory to the support it seeks from the Muslim community during elections.
“We urge Congress and Sharad Pawar’s NCP to break ties with Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena faction,” said Maulana Bunei Hafiz, General Secretary of the Board.
“This demand reflects the collective sentiment of the Muslim community, which remains a significant supporter of Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance.” Hafiz also pointed out that Shiv Sena-UBT had won 20 assembly seats in Muslim-majority regions, as reported by Business Today.
The controversy escalated after Milind Narvekar, a close aide of Uddhav Thackeray and an MLC, shared an image on X depicting Babri Masjid demolition. The post included the quote, “I am proud of those who did it,” attributed to Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray.
The move drew sharp criticism from MVA allies. SP leader Abu Azmi announced his party’s withdrawal from the alliance, condemning Shiv Sena-UBT’s stance. Azmi emphasised the deep sensitivity of the issue among the alliance’s voter base, particularly the Muslim community.
