Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has strictly instructed all his office bearers and spokespersons not to make any public statements regarding a possible alliance with the Shiv Sena (Thackeray faction).
Mumbai: A new development has been observed in Maharashtra's politics in recent days. Discussions are rife regarding the meeting of the Thackeray cousins, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray, who were seen together on the same stage after two decades, and whether the two parties might come together in the upcoming elections. However, putting a stop to these speculations for now, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has issued strict orders to all his office bearers and spokespersons not to make any public statements regarding a possible alliance with the Shiv Sena (Thackeray faction).
Raj Thackeray has clearly stated that it would be mandatory to seek his permission before speaking on this sensitive issue. It is believed that he has taken this decision to send a message within the party and maintain discipline, so that no confusion or contradiction arises in MNS's strategy.
Historic Stage Sharing at Worli Rally, Signals of New Equations
It is noteworthy that at a major rally held in Worli, Mumbai, on Saturday, the Thackeray cousins Uddhav and Raj appeared together on the stage. This rally was organized to celebrate the state government's withdrawal of the Hindi language government order (GR). Both leaders reiterated their commitment to protect Marathi identity and culture from the stage.
During this event, Uddhav Thackeray hinted that they might unite to open a front against the BJP in the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections and other local body elections. Uddhav Thackeray said, "We have taken steps to protect our mother tongue and will return to power together in the future." This statement by Uddhav Thackeray naturally fueled the possibilities of an alliance, but Raj Thackeray immediately took precautions and ordered his party to stay away from public discussion on the matter.
Raj Thackeray Accuses BJP of 'Divide and Rule'
Raj Thackeray also launched a sharp attack at the Worli rally. He quipped that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had done what even Balasaheb Thackeray could not, by bringing the two Thackeray brothers on one stage. Raj Thackeray said, "The BJP's real aim is to create divisions in the Marathi community and rule. People are being misled by creating language disputes, and I fear that in the future, attempts will be made to make people fight in the name of caste."
This statement by Raj Thackeray indicates that he is wary of the BJP's strategies and does not want to incur political losses by engaging in discussions about any possible alliance for now.
Both Parties Preparing for BMC Elections
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) in Mumbai has been the traditional bhold of the Shiv Sena, which Uddhav Thackeray wants to regain at all costs. At the same time, the MNS has also gained a b foothold in Mumbai's Marathi vote bank in recent years. If both Thackeray brothers come together, it could prove to be a major setback for the BJP. But Raj Thackeray has made it clear that no one has the right to form a public opinion on such an alliance yet.
Political experts believe that this move by Raj Thackeray is a way to maintain discipline in the party as well as to strengthen his credibility. He does not want the MNS's independent identity to be harmed by speculation about an alliance.
Excitement Grows in Politics
The coming together of Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray on one stage is being considered a historic event in Maharashtra's politics. Seeing this, the supporters of MNS and Shiv Sena (Thackeray faction) are also excited. But the path to an alliance is not so easy. Raj Thackeray has made it clear that no leader will speak on the alliance or electoral understanding until he himself gives the green signal.
In such a situation, if the meetings and talks between the Thackeray brothers continue in the coming days, then the possibility of a major change in Maharashtra's politics cannot be ruled out.
