In a candid interview to MiD DAY, Bal Thackeray's daughter-in-law talks about her decision to join the Congress. Speaking to Sanjeev Devasia, Smita also shows her fondness for Nitin Gadkari and Raj Thackeray
In a candid interview to MiD DAY, Bal Thackeray's daughter-in-law talks about her decision to join the Congress. Speaking to Sanjeev Devasia, Smita also shows her fondness for Nitin Gadkari and Raj Thackeray
What brought you to Delhi?
There are various reasons; I was keen to meet Sonia Gandhi, to congratulate her on the Women's Reservation Bill. Besides, I wanted to seek help for a forum working for women across the country, from various people including those in the party and the government. I want to take help from the local government too.
Smita Thackeray during an interview with MiD DAY at Ramda Plaza Hotel
in New Delhi on Thursday.u00a0PIC/RAJEEV TYAGI
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What does this forum do? What are its activities?
The Smita Thackeray Forum (STF) is working among women on issues like domestic violence and female foeticide and has charted out programmes like Swavlambhi Yojana and Annapoorna Yojana. A rally held as part of the Forum's programmes saw a lot of support from Muslim women. I mention Muslim women, because there is a lot of apprehension regarding my surname. Besides, we work for all women, regardless of caste, language or religion.
This apprehension, is it because of the stigma attached to the Thackeray surname among Muslims?
Yes, it is because of the stigma attached to my surname. There are apprehensions in the minds of the Muslims. For several years a perception has built up against the party. But when they came to know of our real intentions they came all out in support.
Why did you decide to join the Congress?
If someone wants to grow in life, especially those in the field of social service, he or she has to eventually join politics. About joining the Congress, I think that politics and personal relations are separate. But I do admit that it is because of Balasaheb that I have got everything in life.
Then why did you leave the Shiv Sena?
If there is no future in a place, what do you do? I never got a chance to work in the party. They did not give me any opportunity. I don't like being diplomatic. I speak my mind.
Balasaheb must have been terribly upset because of your exit?
He must have been hurt, but so was I. But he is a stronger person and a great politician.
Uddhav Thackeray has indirectly asked you to desist from using the Thackeray surname?
Let them tell it to me directly. Then I will decide what I have to do.
What do you think about the Shiv Sena's future?
| Thackeray Bahu in Delhi |
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Smita Thackeray is likely to meet several Congress leaders including Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee and Delhi CM Sheila Dixit. She is yet to be granted an audience by Congress chief Sonia Gandhi. |
You have been praising BJP's Nitin Gadkari and also Raj Thackeray. Any plans of joining either of them?
I have praised them as individuals and I like the leadership of Raj Thackeray. But that does not mean that I appreciate the policies of the MNS. Besides, if I praise them that doesn't mean I have to join their party.
Isn't your entry into the Congress getting delayed?
I am not pushing for my entry into the Congress. I have adopted a slow and study pace. Let the party understand my credibility, perseverance and my work before admitting me. If given an opportunity by the party, I will take up the offer.
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