Sena (UBT) MP’s ‘can’t say about tomorrow’ remark sparks buzz; Raut downplays statement

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar: A remark by Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Jadhav — "I am with you today, but cannot say about tomorrow" — made at a public event on Saturday has triggered political speculation about his future course, prompting the party leadership to step in and play down the controversy.Responding on Sunday, Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut downplayed the statement. Calling Jadhav a loyal Shiv Sainik, Raut said he had stood by the party through crises and splits and remained committed to Balasaheb Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray. "If he has made such a statement, his sentiments must be understood. We will speak to him and understand the context in which it was made," Raut said.Jadhav made the comment while addressing a gathering at the inauguration of a private hospital in Parbhani. Reflecting on his political journey, he said he continued to hold deep respect for the party that shaped his career and did not have the mindset to betray those who gave him opportunities in politics.However, he also referred to the uncertainty in the current political environment, saying it was difficult to predict the future given the rapidly changing situation. "In politics today, one cannot firmly say what will happen tomorrow," he said, a remark that quickly sparked debate in political circles.During his speech, Jadhav spoke about what he described as a decline in political values, claiming that politics was increasingly driven by money rather than social service. He cited changes in voter behaviour, alleging that financial expectations sometimes outweighed interest in development during elections.Quoting a proverb to underline the importance of intent in decision-making, Jadhav said his future decisions would be taken at the appropriate time, based on his experience of various ups and downs in politics.Jadhav is regarded as a key member of the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena faction in Parbhani district, and his ambiguous remark has caused unease among party workers. Political observers say the lack of clarity has fuelled speculation about a possible shift in allegiance.