Big upheaval in Maharashtra politics: Uddhav and Raj Thackeray on one platform after 20 years, announce alliance for BMC elections

A historic and symbolic development was seen in Maharashtra politics on Wednesday. After a long gap of nearly 20 years, two prominent faces of the Thackeray family—Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray—were seen together on the same stage. Keeping in mind the upcoming municipal elections, especially the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, both the leaders have announced a formal alliance between Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS).

During the joint press conference, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray made it clear that their collaboration is in the larger interest of Maharashtra and to protect ‘Marathi identity’. Both the leaders indicated that this alliance will not be limited to Mumbai only, but a joint strategy will also be prepared in future for other major municipal corporations of the state. The presence of both the families on the stage has given more weight to this political reunion.

New beginning of ‘Thackeray Brothers’

Announcing the alliance, Uddhav Thackeray said that today they have come together on the stage not as a leader, but as ‘Thackeray Brothers’. He committed to fight unitedly for the future of Mumbai and the rights of Marathi Manus. At the same time, Raj Thackeray also stressed that Maharashtra is bigger than any personal differences. He announced that the next Mayor of Mumbai will be a Marathi and Maharashtrian, who will be elected from this alliance.

Raj Thackeray has also indicated to clarify the situation regarding the municipal elections of Nashik and other cities soon. Political analysts believe that just before the BMC elections, this alliance can completely change the political equations of the state.

Why is this together important?

It is noteworthy that differences between Uddhav and Raj Thackeray came to the fore during the year 2005-06. After the controversy over Balasaheb Thackeray’s political succession and party leadership, Raj Thackeray separated from Shiv Sena and formed his new party MNS. After this, both the cousins ​​continued on different paths and on many occasions were seen as staunch opponents of each other. Now their coming together after two decades is a big message not only for their supporters but for the entire politics of Maharashtra.