MUMBAI: In a big embarrassment to BJP-led union government, the Shiv Sena on Monday extended its support to the Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in his fight against the union government for more power to the state while saying that "Whatever happening to Kejriwal is not good for democracy".
The ruling ally at the centre has opined that the movement started by Kejriwal is unique one and hence the party has supported him. However, the Shiv Sena has avoided openly joining Kejriwal's protests.
Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray on Monday called up Kejriwal and conveyed the sentiments to him, party spokesperson and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut told the media.
"The agitation started by Kejriwal is unique. He has right to work for Delhi as he represents the elected government of Delhi and hence Uddhavji spoke to him and extended support to him," Raut said.
Shiv Sena, which was formed for the rights of local people, had been eyeing, at least for past couple of years, a nation-wide coalition of regional parties around issues such as de-centralization of power. Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray perceives Kejriwal's agitation as an opportunity that would boost such a coalition of regional parties, a party insider told the New Indian Express.
The Shiv Sena would be celebrating its 52nd foundation day tomorrow (Tuesady, June 19 ) at the NESCO complex at Goregaon, where Thackeray is likely to raise the issue while commenting on the present political situation in the county.
Thackeray is also expected to make a major political announcement, a senior party leader, who doesn't wish to be named, has said.Shiv Sena had always fought for the rights of the sons of soil and had to continue fighting even after rulers in Delhi were changed as their mentality remained the same, the leader said reminding that the Shiv Sena also had to fight with the centre to keep intact the financial security of BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) when they decided to abolish octroi for brining in the Goods and Services Tax (GST).