Thackeray Cousins Reunite: A New Political Alliance in Maharashtra?

Public Pushes for Unity

Sanjay Raut, a Shiv Sena (UBT) MP, recently made it clear that there’s no official alliance between Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). However, he did note that many people want these two parties to join forces. This is especially true for the upcoming local elections in Maharashtra, including the important Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls.

Key Points to Consider:

• People want Shiv Sena and MNS to team up for elections.
• Raut talked about protecting the rights of ‘Marathi Maanus’.
• Raj Thackeray has his own unique way of working.

Shiv Sena (UBT) Open to Teaming Up with MNS

Raut hinted that Shiv Sena (UBT) might prefer to align with MNS. This is instead of being part of the INDIA bloc for the upcoming civic elections. This openness comes after they recently stood together against the use of Hindi in Maharashtra schools.

A Word of Caution

Raut warned Raj Thackeray about teaming up with the BJP or Eknath Shinde. He pointed out that MNS faced political setbacks in the past due to such alliances.

A Historic Moment

The talk about a possible alliance grew stronger after a big political moment earlier this week. Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray shared the stage and even hugged at the ‘Awaz Marathicha’ rally at Mumbai’s Worli Dome. This event was to protest against the Maharashtra government’s plan to introduce Hindi as a third language. It was the first time in nearly 20 years that the two cousins showed unity in public.

What Was Said at the Rally

• Uddhav Thackeray: “We have come together to stay together. Together we will win power in Mumbai’s civic body and Maharashtra.”
• They criticized the BJP-led Centre. They said it was moving major institutions and businesses from Mumbai to Gujarat.
• Raj Thackeray: The unity shown by the Marathi community made the state government change its language policy.

A Symbol of Reconciliation

At the rally, the brothers also garlanded a statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj together. This act was a symbol of their reconciliation. It came after Raj Thackeray split from the Shiv Sena in 2005 to form the MNS following a dispute over who would lead.