Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
Credit: PTI File Photo
Mumbai: In a massive campaign in the run up to the civic polls in Maharashtra, the Yuva Sena would celebrate Shiv Sena chief leader and deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde’s birthday as Common Man Day on 9 February.
The former chief minister, Shinde turns 61 on 9 February.
When Shinde was CM, he used to describe himself as Common Man.
On the 99th birth anniversary of late Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray on 23 January, Shinde had said: “I was the CM…CM means common man…now (BJP’s) Devendra Fadnavis is the CM…I am the Deputy CM…DCM means dedicated to the common man.”
Guided by Shinde’s son and Kalyan MP, Dr Shrikant Shinde, this initiative will recognize and honour 61 unsung heroes from each of Maharashtra’s 36 districts for their invaluable contributions to society.
Those who would be felicitated include farmers, labourers, warkaris, women entrepreneurs and social workers, healthcare workers, sanitation staff, workers from the unorganized sector and students making a social impact.
“Each year, Yuva Sena undertakes various social initiatives to commemorate the birthday of Shinde, a leader known for his unwavering commitment to the people. Whether as ‘CM Eknath Shinde – the Common Man’s Leader’ or now as ‘DCM Eknath Shinde – Dedicated to the Common Man,’ his relentless efforts toward the welfare of farmers, labourers, women, youth, and students have earned widespread public admiration,” Yuva Sena Working President Purvesh Parisha Pratap Sarnaik and Yuva Sena Chief Secretary Rahul Londhe said making the announcement.
“Shinde’s birthday is a time of celebration, it is also an opportunity to reaffirm the commitment to social service and the empowerment of the common man. This February 9, Maharashtra will come together to honour those who silently shape society, celebrating their dedication, resilience, and selfless service,” they added.