Key Points:
- Uddhav Thackeray (Shiv Sena, Thackeray faction) and Raj Thackeray (MNS) will appear together for the first time in years at the Vijay Rally on July 5, following the Maharashtra government’s withdrawal of the ‘three language’ formula.
- Their joint appearance is fueling speculation about a possible political alliance ahead of the Mumbai municipal elections.
- Uddhav Thackeray remains non-committal about an alliance, stating he will comment after election dates are announced.
- Raj Thackeray insists the rally is about Marathi unity, not politics, and urges the public to look beyond electoral calculations.
- Political heavyweights including Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, Sharad Pawar, Rahul Gandhi, and Ajit Pawar are closely watching these developments.
Mumbai: In a move that has sent ripples across Maharashtra’s political circles, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray are set to appear together at the Vijay Rally on July 5. This marks the first public collaboration between the estranged cousins in years, following a prolonged period of political and personal bitterness. The rally comes in the wake of the Fadnavis government’s reversal on the controversial ‘three language’ policy, a decision that has united diverse Marathi voices.
Alliance Rumors Gain Momentum
With both leaders sharing the stage, speculation is rife about a potential alliance between the Shiv Sena (Thackeray faction) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) especially as the high-stakes Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections approach. Behind-the-scenes talks are reportedly ongoing between the two parties, with political observers suggesting that their coming together could dramatically alter Maharashtra’s political equations.
When asked directly about a possible alliance, Uddhav Thackeray remained cautious, stating, “Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections have not been announced. I will comment on alliances after the elections are declared.” This ambiguity has only fueled further discussion about the future of the Thackeray brothers’ political relationship.
Raj Thackeray: Rally Is About Marathi Identity, Not Politics
Raj Thackeray, addressing the speculation, emphasized that the Vijay Rally should be seen as a stand for Marathi pride and language, not a political maneuver. “Everyone was united against the government. It has nothing to do with politics. During elections, alliances will keep forming, but when the Marathi language itself is at stake, what is the meaning of alliances and coalitions?” he said, urging the public to look beyond electoral calculations.
Political Rivals React
The prospect of a Thackeray reunion has drawn reactions from across the political spectrum. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis downplayed the significance, saying, “What difference does it make to us if two brothers come together? It’s a good thing if they have tea together.” He also responded to criticism over language policy and accusations of inconsistency, asserting, “They have a problem with Hindi, we don’t. As for the compulsory Hindi decision, it was taken during my tenure and is now public. Changing stances is their habit.”
What’s Next for Maharashtra Politics?
- All Eyes on the Elections: The possibility of a Shiv Sena–MNS alliance is being watched closely by political heavyweights like Eknath Shinde, Sharad Pawar, Rahul Gandhi, and Ajit Pawar.
- Marathi Identity in Focus: The rally underscores the ongoing debate over language, identity, and cultural preservation in Maharashtra.
- Potential for Political Realignment: If the Thackeray cousins do join forces, it could reshape alliances and strategies for upcoming municipal and state elections.
