Uddhav Thackeray Slams BJP Over Waqf Bill, US Tariffs: Says ‘Even Jinnah Would Be Ashamed’:

Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday, accusing it of exploiting Hindu-Muslim tensions for political gain. His remarks came following the passage of the Waqf Amendment Bill in Lok Sabha after a lengthy 12-hour debate.

“The concern shown by the BJP and its allies for Muslims would put Muhammad Ali Jinnah to shame,” Uddhav said, mocking the ruling party’s support for the legislation it claims is progressive and beneficial to the Muslim community.

Uddhav Accuses BJP of Land Seizure Agenda

While clarifying that the Shiv Sena (UBT) is not opposed to the Bill itself, Uddhav expressed concern over the BJP's intentions. He alleged that the government may use the legislation as a means to seize land and hand it over to industrialist allies.

‘Remove Green from Flag If You Dislike Muslims’: Uddhav to BJP

In a sharp jibe, Uddhav questioned the BJP’s sincerity toward national unity. “If the BJP really dislikes Muslims, it should remove the green colour from its (party) flag,” he said.

The BJP has consistently defended the Waqf Amendment Bill, dismissing concerns from opposition parties and religious groups that it is anti-Muslim in nature.

Criticism of Modi Government Over US Tariff Response

Shifting focus to economic issues, Uddhav also criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his silence on the newly imposed US tariffs on Indian goods.

“PM Modi should have told the country about the impending danger of US tariffs and steps being taken to mitigate it,” he stated, urging the Centre to be more transparent and proactive about international economic challenges.