Maharashtra is currently facing a severe drought crisis, with drought conditions reported in more than 72 areas across the state. Raj Thackeray said the situation was even more serious than the drought of 1972, making it inappropriate to celebrate festivals with the usual enthusiasm. Against this backdrop, the MNS has decided to cancel the Deepotsav organised by the party every year.
Thackeray said he could not justify organising grand celebrations while people across Maharashtra were suffering because of the drought. He stressed that the difficulties faced by citizens must be taken into consideration before celebrating festivals.
What Did Raj Thackeray Say?
Raj Thackeray said Maharashtra was going through a difficult period and holding Deepotsav celebrations under such circumstances would not be appropriate. He also criticised the Chief Minister for not speaking about the drought situation in the state. According to Thackeray, most ruling party leaders appeared unaware of the seriousness of the situation and remained occupied with playing Garba.
He warned that if the situation continued, numerous groups of people living in settlements could be forced to leave their villages and migrate towards cities.
Thackeray made a humble appeal to citizens, urging them not to celebrate a black Diwali but to exercise restraint in their festivities. He said people should control their enthusiasm to some extent and avoid excessive lighting and firecrackers.
"We are citizens of Maharashtra, and we all have immense love for the people of Maharashtra," Thackeray said, emphasising that celebrating festivals with great enthusiasm while fellow citizens were facing severe drought conditions did not seem appropriate.
He further said people should continue traditional Diwali celebrations by lighting lanterns and distributing festive food, but should exercise restraint when it came to decorative lighting and bursting firecrackers.
Thackeray appealed to citizens to keep this year's festive celebrations subdued in view of the prevailing circumstances. He also expressed hope that Deepotsav could be celebrated with even greater enthusiasm next year.
The MNS decision to cancel its annual Deepotsav reflects the party's appeal for restraint during a period when drought-hit communities across Maharashtra are facing severe hardships.
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