"Shiv Sena (UBT)'s Saamana Editorial Headline 'Congratulations Deva Bhau' Sparks Debate"

A courtesy meeting between Uddhav Thackeray and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to exchange congratulations raised many questions in Maharashtra politics, especially following a press conference that criticized the state government during the first winter session held in Nagpur.

Saamana, the Shiv Sena (UBT)'s newspaper on Thursday praised Devendra Fadnavis calling him ‘Deva Bhau’ for starting the first day of the year by visiting the Gadchiroli district, a region known for Naxalite activity.

In the editorial it is mentioned, “While the entire country was immersed in celebrating and welcoming the New Year, Chief Minister Fadnavis spent the first day of the year in Gadchiroli. Not only did he spend the day there, but he also performed groundbreaking ceremonies and inaugurated several development projects. Some projects were also launched. While speaking on the occasion, he referred to a new era of development for Gadchiroli. If what the Chief Minister said turns out to be true, it will not only be positive for Gadchiroli but for the entire state of Maharashtra”

While speaking to the media MP Sanay Raut who is editor of Saamana said that, “We have acknowledged Devendra Fadnavis for the good work done by the government. Maharashtra is our state, and in a place like Gadchiroli, which has been affected by Naxalism, we welcome any Naxalites who choose to surrender and follow the constitutional path. While we have worked with Devendra Fadnavis in the past and maintain that relationship, we are now in the opposition and will continue to raise relevant issues.”

Shiv Sena (UBT) referred to Devendra Fadnavis as 'Deva Bhau’, a term with emotional significance, used during the recent assembly elections to convey the message that he is the brother of the entire state.

Has Shivsena(UBT) party extended a hand of friendship to Deva Bhau? If so, this could be a matter of concern for Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar.​