Mumbai: The Shiv Sena UBT led by Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday called for unity in the interest of Mumbai and Maharashtra. In a message posted on Instagram, the party said, “The time has come to unite for Mumbai and Maharashtra. Shiv Sainiks are ready to protect Marathi pride.”
This message comes just days before Maharashtra Day, celebrated on May 1 and has increased talks about a possible alliance between Uddhav’s Shiv Sena UBT and Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) ahead of civic body elections later this year.
A senior Shiv Sena UBT leader said the post was meant to energize the workers and show that the party’s first priority is the pride and welfare of the Marathi people. However, the leader also said that any final decision about an alliance would only be taken by Uddhav and Raj themselves.
A leader from the MNS, speaking anonymously told the Indian Express that if Uddhav is willing to take a step forward, it would be welcomed by them too. But he also added that forming an alliance is a serious matter and cannot be decided through social media posts. Detailed discussions will be needed.
At present, both Uddhav and Raj are abroad on family holidays. Reports suggest Raj will return to Mumbai on April 29, while Uddhav is expected to be back by May 4.
Raj Thackeray: 'Ready To Keep Aside Differences'
Last week, Raj Thackeray gave an interview where he said that there was no major problem between him and Uddhav and that Maharashtra’s welfare was more important than any differences between them. Uddhav also responded during a party meeting, saying he was ready to set aside any minor issues in the interest of Maharashtra.
This possible patch-up between the Thackeray cousins has received positive reactions from other political leaders. NCP (SP) leader Supriya Sule, who personally called both Uddhav and Raj, said she was very happy and called it a “golden moment.” Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also welcomed the news, saying it would be good if they came together for the state’s betterment.
As both cousins prepare to return to Mumbai, there is growing curiosity in political circles about whether this friendship will lead to a formal alliance ahead of the important local elections.
