The two Thackeray cousins have announced a joint "Tiranga" march in Mumbai on Sunday in support of students and Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) supporters protesting against the Centre over alleged examination irregularities.
Fadnavis made the remarks after offering prayers at the Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Temple in Pandharpur on the occasion of Ashadhi Ekadashi. Responding to questions about the proposed march and the ongoing protests, the Chief Minister said that everyone has the right to express their views in a democracy but questioned the political intention behind the demonstration.
"I think everyone has the right to express their views in a democracy. But I believe this march has very little to do with students. It appears to be more of an attempt to recreate political space for themselves. However, I extend my good wishes to them," Fadnavis told reporters.
His comments came as the Opposition intensified its campaign over the alleged NEET paper leak and demanded accountability from the Centre.
Fadnavis distinguishes between genuine protesters and political elements
The Chief Minister said the ongoing agitation included both genuine protesters concerned about the future of students and individuals attempting to use the movement for political gains.
"The seriousness of the issue has brought many people to protest peacefully because they are concerned about the future of the youth. At the same time, there are also people trying to exploit the agitation for political gains, including those indulging in violence and attempting to create lawlessness," he said.
Fadnavis alleged that some elements were trying to create disorder under the cover of protests.
Fadnavis refers to Sonam Wangchuk ending hunger strike
The Maharashtra Chief Minister also referred to activist Sonam Wangchuk's decision to end his hunger strike after receiving assurances from the Centre.
"That is why Sonam Wangchuk ended his fast. His demands were accepted by the government, action has begun, and he has appealed to everyone that the movement should continue peacefully," he said.
The Centre has announced that it will introduce legislation providing for stricter action against examination paper leaks and has also said that fast-track courts have been established to handle such cases.
Pandharpur Temple Corridor project to begin this year
Speaking about the proposed Pandharpur Temple Corridor project, Fadnavis reiterated that work on the project is expected to begin this year.
"The key components of the project will be completed in two to two-and-a-half years, while the entire project will take around three-and-a-half to four years. Discussions had been held with most stakeholders, and the concerns of 80 to 90 per cent of those affected had been addressed. The remaining issues would also be resolved through dialogue," he said.
According to the Chief Minister, the project aims to improve infrastructure around the temple and make the darshan process more convenient for the growing number of pilgrims visiting Pandharpur every year.
Uddhav Thackeray defends proposed protest march
Earlier on Friday, Uddhav Thackeray defended the proposed march and criticised the government's handling of protests over the alleged examination paper leak.
Addressing supporters in Mumbai's Dadar area, he said the march would be a peaceful demonstration in support of students.
"This is 'jan ki baat' (voice of people) and Delhi has to listen to it. The way students were attacked, tear-gassed, I am warning the government -- you can have lathis, but we have tirangas. Let's see who wins," he said.
The joint march by the Thackeray cousins is being seen as a rare show of unity between Shiv Sena (UBT) and the MNS, with both parties seeking to support student protests over alleged examination irregularities and education reforms.
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