Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray on Friday spoke to CJP founder Abhijeet Dipke over a video call, assuring him of the Opposition’s full support as he continues to lead a movement demanding justice for students.
The interaction took place after senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Chandrakant Khaire visited Dipke’s residence in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and arranged the call. A video of the conversation was later shared on social media, drawing attention to the Opposition’s backing for Dipke’s campaign.
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During the conversation, Dipke reaffirmed his commitment to continue the agitation until the students’ demands are fulfilled. He said the movement would remain focused on seeking justice through democratic means and would not be abandoned despite mounting pressure.
Following the call, Chandrakant Khaire said Thackeray had assured Dipke that the entire Opposition stood united behind him and the students’ cause.
“I was there for nearly an hour at his residence. Uddhav Thackeray assured that the entire Opposition stands unitedly with Abhijeet Dipke,” Khaire said.
Apart from discussing the ongoing movement, Thackeray also spoke with Dipke’s mother, Anita Dipke, and enquired about her son’s well-being. In a lighter moment, he asked about Abhijeet’s marriage plans.
Responding to Thackeray, Anita Dipke said that while every parent wishes to see their children settle down, the decision would ultimately rest with her son.
“All parents want their children to get married. I had asked him earlier too. But it will be completely his decision,” she said.
The conversation comes a day after Dipke made a series of allegations regarding the handling of the student protests. He claimed that he had received repeated threats during the agitation and alleged that attempts were made to pressure him into joining the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), with warnings that his family could face consequences if he refused.
Dipke also accused the Centre of intimidating students and alleged that police used excessive force against protesters during the demonstrations. He further criticised the government’s handling of education-related issues, including paper leak cases, and claimed that students continued to face harassment even after the protests had concluded.
Additionally, Dipke targeted yoga guru Baba Ramdev while questioning the government’s response to the concerns raised by students. Despite the alleged threats and pressure, he maintained that his campaign would continue peacefully and democratically until the demands of students are addressed.
The interaction between Thackeray and Dipke is being viewed as a significant political gesture, with the Shiv Sena (UBT) chief signalling the Opposition’s willingness to support the student-led movement as it continues to gain national attention.
