Mumbai: Maharashtra is witnessing a significant political stir with reports indicating a potential reunion of Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray. In recent days, both sides have given major signs of coming together again after decades. In 2005, Raj Thackeray left Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena to form his own party, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), which created a distance between the two leaders.
Recently, both former Chief Ministers Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray indicated a willingness to unite amid concerns over threats to Marathi culture and identity. At separate events, both leaders, with Uddhav heading Shiv Sena (UBT) and Raj leading MNS, delivered a joint message that the linguistic and cultural interests of Maharashtra take precedence over political rivalry.
Indications of reunion
Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray signalled to the voters of Maharashtra that the state’s interests and Marathi culture are more important than their political differences. Raj Thackeray remarked that the differences between him and Uddhav are “minor” and are negatively impacting the Marathi people.
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“The differences are very minor. Maharashtra is more important than these disagreements. These issues are proving costly for the existence of Maharashtra and the Marathi people. Coming together is not difficult; it is a matter of will. It’s not just about my wish or self-interest,” Raj stated. He also mentioned that if the state desires their reunion, he would not let his ego hinder it.
This potential reunion would mean Raj stepping back from his unconditional support for Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the 2024 elections.
Uddhav Thackeray sets conditions
Uddhav Thackeray has laid down certain conditions for the reconciliation with Raj Thackeray. He said, “I am ready to resolve minor disputes, but there’s a condition. One day we support them, the next day we oppose them, and then make compromises; we cannot change sides. I will not welcome anyone who works against the interests of Maharashtra, nor will I invite them to my home or engage with them. Let this be clear first.”
From Uddhav’s camp, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut indicated a willingness to facilitate the reunion of the two leaders. He reiterated Uddhav’s condition that Raj must not give any space to his “enemies”. The reunion of the Thackeray brothers is expected to reshape Maharashtra’s political landscape.
What did BJP say?
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis commented on the potential reunion of the Thackeray brothers, expressing that the BJP would be pleased if they reunited. He added, “Even if they fail to defeat the NDA in the upcoming BMC elections, we will be happy if they come together. It is a good thing if separated individuals can unite again.”
State BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule stated that his party would not oppose such a reunion, asserting that the decision to join hands with Uddhav Thackeray lies solely with Raj Thackeray, who can determine his party’s future.
What did Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) say?
Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, whose recent visit to Raj Thackeray’s home had sparked discussions of a possible alliance for the BMC elections, has not yet provided a comment on this matter.
Congress and NCP welcomes reunion
Uddhav Thackeray’s ally, the Congress party, has also expressed no objections to the potential reunion. State Congress chief Harshvardhan Sapkal noted that Raj Thackeray appears to align with the view that the BJP is attempting to undermine Maharashtra’s language and culture.
Supriya Sule, daughter of Sharad Pawar and MP for the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), stated that such a reunion should be “wholeheartedly welcomed.” She described it as “good news,” commenting that Thackeray would have been very happy to see this development if he were alive today.
