Shinde Calls Him ‘Saheb’, Fadnavis’ Shayari Marks Uddhav Thackeray’s Memorable MLC Farewell

Former Chief Minister and Member of the Legislative Council Uddhav Thackeray was given a political farewell on Tuesday, as his term in the Legislative Council came to an end.

The House witnessed laughter and Shayari's political jibes during the proceedings.

Nine members of the Legislative Council are retiring, and during the farewell speeches, Devendra Fadnavis remarked that after P.L. Deshpande, would confer the title of “Kotyadhish” (witty one) upon Uddhav Thackeray for his sharp humor.

He expressed hope that the House would get to hear Thackeray’s witty remarks again. Referring to their political split in 2019, Fadnavis said, “Jinko mera haath pakad kar chalna tha, wo baat pakad kar baith gaye…”

Uddhav Thackeray responded with a sharp remark, saying, you knew me so well then, “Aisi kaunsi baat thi ki aur kisi ka haath pakadna pada,”(despite knowing him so closely, a different alliance was chosen).

During the session, Eknath Shinde wished Thackeray good health and a long life, addressing him respectfully as “Saheb.” I wish him a healthy life and all the best for his political journey.”

The overall atmosphere in the House turned lively and humorous during the farewell ceremony.

However, Thackeray was not present in the House when Shinde began his speech. Shinde said that farewell speeches are meant to be positive, adding that some members would meet again in the House while others would meet in the field.

Thackeray entered the House just as Shinde was concluding his speech and was seen taking a light-hearted jibe at his remarks.

In his address, Thackeray said, “Chief Minister, when I entered the House, I heard some members saying that we will meet somewhere. I will come to meet you (Devendra Fadnavis) shortly. But some will be met on the battlefield, some elsewhere… and some feel that meeting here itself is enough (folding hands).”

He thanked everyone in the House and extended his best wishes to other retiring members as well.

Today marks the final day of the Budget Session. A discussion on the final week proposal will take place, and the Chief Minister is expected to respond to all allegations raised by the opposition over the past few days.

Issues such as the Ashok Kharat case, law and order, farmers’ concerns, and Ajit Dada’s accidental demise are likely to be addressed.

The Chief Minister will also hold an important press conference later in the afternoon​