The Supreme Court is hearing a crucial challenge by Uddhav Thackeray's faction against the Election Commission's decision to award the Shiv Sena name and iconic 'bow and arrow' symbol to the Eknath Shinde-led camp. During the hearing, the court observed that a political party's organizational will should prevail over a legislative majority. The case stems from the dramatic 2022 Shiv Sena split that reshaped Maharashtra politics. With local body elections on the horizon, the verdict could have major political implications for both factions.

Shiv Sena symbol row reaches supreme court: Uddhav vs Shinde battle intensifies 

In a major political development, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi has officially assumed additional charge of the Ministry of Education, following the resignation of Dharmendra Pradhan. The Centre moved swiftly to ensure continuity in the Education Ministry after weeks of unprecedented nationwide student protests. Pralhad Joshi, who continues to hold the portfolios of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, and New & Renewable Energy, thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for entrusting him with the responsibility and pledged to discharge his duties with humility, dedication, and honesty. The appointment follows a month-long agitation led by the Cockroach Janata Party (CJP) over alleged NEET paper leak and examination irregularities. The protest officially ended after the third round of talks between the Centre and CJP, during which the government accepted the protesters' key demands, including the resignation of the Education Minister, withdrawal of FIRs against protesters, and consideration of a five-point charter on examination reforms.

Pralhad Joshi Takes Over Education Ministry | Dharmendra Pradhan Resigns | CJP Ends Protest

Ahead of the Monsoon Session of Parliament, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla approved the merger of six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena. The move raises the Shinde faction's strength in the Lok Sabha to 13 MPs, making it the largest NDA ally from Maharashtra and dealing a major setback to Uddhav Thackeray. The development comes amid the all-party meeting and speculation over key constitutional bills in the upcoming session.

Lok Sabha Speaker approves Shiv Sena UBT MPs' merger with Shinde Faction | Big NDA Boost

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Saturday approved the merger of six Shiv Sena (UBT) rebel MPs with the Shiv Sena led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.&nbsp;The approval raises the Shiv Sena's strength in the Lok Sabha to 13 MPs, while reducing the strength of the Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction to three members.&nbsp;The Speaker also approved separate seating arrangements in the Lok Sabha for 20 MPs who broke away from the Trinamool Congress and announced their merger with the regional Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI). However, the Speaker has not yet cleared the merger of the rebel TMC MPs.Last month, rebel TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar led a group of 20 MPs that announced a merger with the NCPI. Shiv Sena (UBT) also faced a split after six of its Lok Sabha MPs joined the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde.&nbsp;Earlier, seven Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MPs joined the BJP. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance currently has 298 members in the Lok Sabha, including the Speaker. If the Speaker approves the merger of the rebel TMC MPs with the NCPI, the NDA's strength will rise to 318.&nbsp;The ruling alliance would then move closer to the two-thirds majority mark of 360 in the 540-member House, where three seats are currently vacant.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-suspends-commitments-under-ceasefire-mou-over-us-violations-as-conflict-escalates-1784383044459">Iran suspends commitments under ceasefire MoU over 'US violations' as conflict escalates</a>&nbsp;The recent mergers have triggered speculation that the Centre may bring back the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill. The proposed legislation seeks to increase the strength of the Lok Sabha to as many as 850 seats and implement the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, providing 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures.&nbsp;According to sources, the Centre is likely to reintroduce the Bill while trying to address concerns and assure a uniform 50 per cent increase in Lok Sabha seats across states.With the NDA moving closer to a stronger majority and the DMK not being part of the INDIA bloc, the Centre is looking to secure the passage of the Bill, which was defeated after receiving 298 votes in April.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla approved the merger of six Shiv Sena (UBT) rebel MPs with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, while keeping the merger of 20 rebel TMC MPs with the NCPI pending.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Saturday approved the merger of six Shiv Sena (UBT) rebel MPs with the Shiv Sena led by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The approval raises the Shiv Sena's strength in the Lok Sabha to 13 MPs, while reducing the strength of the Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction to three members. The Speaker also approved separate seating arrangements in the Lok Sabha for 20 MPs who broke away from the Trinamool Congress and announced their merger with the regional Nationalist Citizens Party of India (NCPI). However, the Speaker has not yet cleared the merger of the rebel TMC MPs. Last month, rebel TMC MP Kakoli Ghosh Dastidar led a group of 20 MPs that announced a merger with the NCPI. Shiv Sena (UBT) also faced a split after six of its Lok Sabha MPs joined the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde. Earlier, seven Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MPs joined the BJP. The BJP-led National Democratic Alliance currently has 298 members in the Lok Sabha, including the Speaker. If the Speaker approves the merger of the rebel TMC MPs with the NCPI, the NDA's strength will rise to 318. The ruling alliance would then move closer to the two-thirds majority mark of 360 in the 540-member House, where three seats are currently vacant. Also Read: Iran suspends commitments under ceasefire MoU over 'US violations' as conflict escalates The recent mergers have triggered speculation that the Centre may bring back the Constitution (131st Amendment) Bill. The proposed legislation seeks to increase the strength of the Lok Sabha to as many as 850 seats and implement the Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam, 2023, providing 33 per cent reservation for women in legislatures. According to sources, the Centre is likely to reintroduce the Bill while trying to address concerns and assure a uniform 50 per cent increase in Lok Sabha seats across states. With the NDA moving closer to a stronger majority and the DMK not being part of the INDIA bloc, the Centre is looking to secure the passage of the Bill, which was defeated after receiving 298 votes in April.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla approved the merger of six Shiv Sena (UBT) rebel MPs with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, while keeping the merger of 20 rebel TMC MPs with the NCPI pending.

Lok Sabha Speaker recognises six UBT rebel MPs as Shiv Sena, leaving Uddhav Thackeray with three

In a major blow to Uddhav Thackeray and his party Shiv Sena (UBT), six Members of Parliament joined Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena on Monday.&nbsp;The rebels are Sanjay Dina Patil, Omprakash Bhupalsingh Nimbalkar, Sanjay Haribhau Jadhav, MP Sanjay Uttamrao Deshmukh, Shirdi MP Bhausaheb Rajaram Wakchaure, and Hingoli MP Nagesh Bapurao Patil Ashtikar.&nbsp;These were the same names that had not turned up for the parliamentary party meeting called by Uddhav Thackeray on June 18.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-eu-free-trade-agreement-what-landmark-deal-means-for-india-1782126858649">India-EU Free Trade Agreement: What landmark deal means for India</a>&nbsp;Out of the nine Lok Sabha MPs, Lok Sabha floor leader Arvind Sawant, chief whip Anil Desai, and Nashik MP Rajabhau Waje were the only ones to be present in the meeting.&nbsp;The rebel MPs in their statements earlier have said that Shiv Sena (UBT) under Uddhav Thackeray has gone astray from the Balasaheb Thackeray’s principles and fear the party could eventually merge with the Congress, which has forced them to take this step.&nbsp;The move gives Shinde an even stronger hold over the politics of Maharashtra and consolidates his position further within the party founded by Bal Thackeray&nbsp;The ruling Shiv Sena has maintained that it represents the original ideology and legacy of the party.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Out of the nine Lok Sabha MPs, Lok Sabha floor leader Arvind Sawant, chief whip Anil Desai, and Nashik MP Rajabhau Waje were the only ones to be present in the parliamentary party meeting called by Uddhav Thackeray on June 18.

In a major blow to Uddhav Thackeray and his party Shiv Sena (UBT), six Members of Parliament joined Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena on Monday. The rebels are Sanjay Dina Patil, Omprakash Bhupalsingh Nimbalkar, Sanjay Haribhau Jadhav, MP Sanjay Uttamrao Deshmukh, Shirdi MP Bhausaheb Rajaram Wakchaure, and Hingoli MP Nagesh Bapurao Patil Ashtikar. These were the same names that had not turned up for the parliamentary party meeting called by Uddhav Thackeray on June 18. ALSO READ: India-EU Free Trade Agreement: What landmark deal means for India Out of the nine Lok Sabha MPs, Lok Sabha floor leader Arvind Sawant, chief whip Anil Desai, and Nashik MP Rajabhau Waje were the only ones to be present in the meeting. The rebel MPs in their statements earlier have said that Shiv Sena (UBT) under Uddhav Thackeray has gone astray from the Balasaheb Thackeray’s principles and fear the party could eventually merge with the Congress, which has forced them to take this step. The move gives Shinde an even stronger hold over the politics of Maharashtra and consolidates his position further within the party founded by Bal Thackeray The ruling Shiv Sena has maintained that it represents the original ideology and legacy of the party.

Out of the nine Lok Sabha MPs, Lok Sabha floor leader Arvind Sawant, chief whip Anil Desai, and Nashik MP Rajabhau Waje were the only ones to be present in the parliamentary party meeting called by Uddhav Thackeray on June 18.

6 Shiv Sena (UBT) rebel MPs join Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena

Amid growing unrest within the Shiv Sena (UBT), party chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said he was ready to step down if party workers no longer had confidence in his leadership. Addressing cadres on the party's 60th foundation day, the former Maharashtra Chief Minister said he was willing to hand over the responsibility to any party worker if members felt he was not the right person to lead.&nbsp;Thackeray said he was prepared to make "anyone" the party chief and had no desire to hold on to the position. At the same time, he made it clear that he would continue to fight for the party's ideology.&nbsp;"I am not someone who will run away in the face of challenges, but if you don't have trust in me, I am willing to step down," Uddhav said while addressing party workers on Shiv Sena's 60th foundation day on Friday.&nbsp;"I would be happy if someone from the party ranks becomes the next Shiv Sena president, but I will not let it pass on in the hands of thieves," he said.&nbsp;Targeting the BJP, Thackeray alleged that the party was trying to eliminate Shiv Sena (UBT) and claimed that the country was moving towards "one party, no election".&nbsp;"Some people must be thinking that we will lose hope. But we will not. Some people are saying that I should give orders. Balasaheb had given an order earlier (to break those who ditch us)," Thackeray said, referring to six of the party's nine Lok Sabha MPs who recently cut ties with the leadership and skipped a parliamentary party meeting.&nbsp;<h2>Shinde says bigger shocks yet to come</h2>Meanwhile, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde took an indirect swipe at the ongoing "Operation Tiger" speculation surrounding Shiv Sena (UBT), saying that recent events were only the beginning and that more developments were expected.&nbsp;Shinde, who split from Uddhav Thackeray in 2022 and later secured the Shiv Sena name and symbol, was speaking at the party's 60th foundation day event when he launched a sharp attack on the Shiv Sena (UBT) chief.&nbsp;He accused Uddhav of abandoning Balasaheb Thackeray's ideology for power and claimed that those who moved away from the saffron ideology had suffered politically.&nbsp;"The Shiv Sena is an ideology; it is not just a political party, it is like a saffron cloud. Those who forgot the saffron ideology suffered losses. You forgot Balasaheb's ideology for the sake of a chair. When he was alive, you troubled him; but even after he passed away, you are honouring the very people he hated," Shinde said.

Thackeray said he would not back down from challenges but was ready to step aside if party workers lost faith in him, days after six of the party's nine Lok Sabha MPs broke ranks with the leadership.

Amid growing unrest within the Shiv Sena (UBT), party chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said he was ready to step down if party workers no longer had confidence in his leadership. Addressing cadres on the party's 60th foundation day, the former Maharashtra Chief Minister said he was willing to hand over the responsibility to any party worker if members felt he was not the right person to lead. Thackeray said he was prepared to make "anyone" the party chief and had no desire to hold on to the position. At the same time, he made it clear that he would continue to fight for the party's ideology. "I am not someone who will run away in the face of challenges, but if you don't have trust in me, I am willing to step down," Uddhav said while addressing party workers on Shiv Sena's 60th foundation day on Friday. "I would be happy if someone from the party ranks becomes the next Shiv Sena president, but I will not let it pass on in the hands of thieves," he said. Targeting the BJP, Thackeray alleged that the party was trying to eliminate Shiv Sena (UBT) and claimed that the country was moving towards "one party, no election". "Some people must be thinking that we will lose hope. But we will not. Some people are saying that I should give orders. Balasaheb had given an order earlier (to break those who ditch us)," Thackeray said, referring to six of the party's nine Lok Sabha MPs who recently cut ties with the leadership and skipped a parliamentary party meeting. Shinde says bigger shocks yet to come Meanwhile, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde took an indirect swipe at the ongoing "Operation Tiger" speculation surrounding Shiv Sena (UBT), saying that recent events were only the beginning and that more developments were expected. Shinde, who split from Uddhav Thackeray in 2022 and later secured the Shiv Sena name and symbol, was speaking at the party's 60th foundation day event when he launched a sharp attack on the Shiv Sena (UBT) chief. He accused Uddhav of abandoning Balasaheb Thackeray's ideology for power and claimed that those who moved away from the saffron ideology had suffered politically. "The Shiv Sena is an ideology; it is not just a political party, it is like a saffron cloud. Those who forgot the saffron ideology suffered losses. You forgot Balasaheb's ideology for the sake of a chair. When he was alive, you troubled him; but even after he passed away, you are honouring the very people he hated," Shinde said.

Thackeray said he would not back down from challenges but was ready to step aside if party workers lost faith in him, days after six of the party's nine Lok Sabha MPs broke ranks with the leadership.

Amid defection buzz, Uddhav Thackeray offers to step down as Shiv Sena (UBT) chief, vows to fight on

After the drubbing in the Maharashtra civic elections and losing the BMC, the Thackeray cousins, Uddhav and Raj, have sworn to continue their Marathi identity politics. “This fight isn’t over yet,” read a post by Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) as he shared a photo of the late Balasaheb Thackeray, who had championed the Marathi cause. The Thackerays lost control of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the country’s richest civic body, after 25 years. The BJP and Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena have emerged victorious in the BMC polls, snatching control from the Thackerays, who had united last year to defeat the ruling Mahayuti alliance.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">ही लढाई अजून संपलेली नाही… मराठी माणसाला योग्य सन्मान मिळेपर्यंत अशीच सुरू राहील! <a href="https://t.co/anLAhcZls5">pic.twitter.com/anLAhcZls5</a>&mdash; ShivSena - शिवसेना Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (@ShivSenaUBT_) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShivSenaUBT_/status/2012371589786935665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-bengal-fed-up-pm-modi-takes-aim-at-mamata-after-mahayuti-win-in-maharashtra-1768588643422">‘Bengal fed up’: PM Modi takes aim at Mamata govt after Mahayuti win in Maharashtra</a>&nbsp;The cousins promised a better life to Mumbai’s residents, but the results dealt a setback to what was expected to be a new chapter in Thackeray politics.Uddhav Thackeray, whose party won 65 out of 227 wards, assured, “The fight will continue just like this until the Marathis receive the respect they deserve.”Raj Thackeray said that the defeat doesn’t mean he would lose heart and give up. “If anything is seen happening against the Marathi people, our corporators will surely bring those in power to their knees,” he thundered as usual.Though Raj’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) could win just six seats in the BMC elections, he vowed to keep fighting for his state and Marathis.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Our fight is for the Marathi people, for the Marathi language, for Marathi identity, and for a prosperous Maharashtra. This fight itself is our very existence. You are well aware that such struggles are long-term in nature,” he said.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-hardline-cleric-calls-for-death-penalty-to-protesters-threatens-trump-1768584627521">Iranian hardline cleric calls for death penalty to protesters, threatens Trump</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">सस्नेह जय महाराष्ट्र, सर्वप्रथम महाराष्ट्र नवनिर्माण सेना आणि शिवसेनेच्या निवडून आलेल्या सर्व नगरसेवकांचं मनापासून अभिनंदन. यावेळची निवडणूक ही सोपी नव्हती. अचाट धनशक्ती, सत्तेची शक्ती विरुद्ध शिवशक्ती अशी लढाई होती. पण अशा लढाईत सुद्धा दोन्ही पक्षाच्या कार्यकर्त्यांनी उत्तम…&mdash; Raj Thackeray (@RajThackeray) <a href="https://twitter.com/RajThackeray/status/2012394016168714623?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Raj Thackeray also accused the Mahayuti of harassing and exploiting Marathis, underlining the significance of his struggle.“Whether in the MMR region or across the entire state, the ruling powers and those who have gone under their shelter will not leave a single opportunity to harass and exploit the Marathi people. Therefore, we must stand firmly behind our Marathi people. Elections will come and go, but we must never forget that our very breath is Marathi,” he said.He also vowed to rebuild the party from scratch, saying the MNS will analyse and act on whatever went wrong.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-threatens-to-slap-tariffs-on-nations-opposing-his-greenland-takeover-plan-1768581081251">Trump threatens to slap tariffs on nations opposing his Greenland takeover plan</a>&nbsp;The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance won 25 out of 29 civic bodies in Maharashtra. The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance won a total of 118 wards in BMC, surpassing the majority mark of 114. While the BJP triumphed in 89 wards, Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena won 29 wards.The BMC has an annual budget exceeding Rs 74,400 crore.As many as 1,700 candidates were in the fray for the 227 seats in the elections that were held after nine years and a four-year delay.

Raj Thackeray said that the defeat doesn’t mean he would lose heart and give up. Though Raj’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) could win just six seats in the BMC elections, he vowed to keep fighting for his state and Marathis. 

After the drubbing in the Maharashtra civic elections and losing the BMC, the Thackeray cousins, Uddhav and Raj, have sworn to continue their Marathi identity politics. “This fight isn’t over yet,” read a post by Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) as he shared a photo of the late Balasaheb Thackeray, who had championed the Marathi cause. The Thackerays lost control of Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the country’s richest civic body, after 25 years. The BJP and Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena have emerged victorious in the BMC polls, snatching control from the Thackerays, who had united last year to defeat the ruling Mahayuti alliance.

Raj Thackeray said that the defeat doesn’t mean he would lose heart and give up. Though Raj’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) could win just six seats in the BMC elections, he vowed to keep fighting for his state and Marathis.&nbsp;

‘Fight isn’t over yet’: Thackeray cousins vow to continue their Marathi identity politics

After nearly two decades of rivalry, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray are set to announce a political alliance ahead of the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections. The split between Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS had long divided Marathi-speaking voters in Mumbai, influencing past election outcomes. Analysts say their combined vote share could significantly impact key civic wards, though questions remain about whether the Thackeray name still holds sway over Mumbai voters.


Maharashtra politics: Uddhav, Raj appeal to Maratha mass ahead of Mumbai polls 

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis brushed off the reunion of the Thackeray cousins on Wednesday and said their alliance for the Maharashtra civic polls will not have any impact. Reacting to the alliance of the two long-estranged cousins Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray coming together, Fadnavis told reporters, “The hype is being created in such a way as if Russia and Ukraine have come together... and Zelenskyy and Putin are talking.” Fadnavis said that the Thackeray brothers have come together for their fight for existence, adding that Marathi manoos will vote only for the Mahayuti.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">VIDEO | Mumbai: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis (<a href="https://twitter.com/Dev_Fadnavis?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Dev_Fadnavis</a>) on Shiv Sena (UBT), MNS announcing alliance ahead of Mumbai civic polls, says, &quot;The hype is being created in such a way as if Russia and Ukraine have come together... and Zelenskyy and Putin are talking. The… <a href="https://t.co/GtsSmPRuIt">pic.twitter.com/GtsSmPRuIt</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/2003752951802957897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“The alliance is between two parties that have lost their identity. People don’t trust them. They have lost their vote bank by doing politics of appeasement. Coming together of these two parties will have no impact. Both the parties have joined hands to save their identity. People of Mumbai have seen development work done by us, and that is why Mumbai is with us and will remain so. Mahayuti will win Mumbai,” the CM said. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yearender-2025-the-year-of-wars-tariff-turmoil-and-climate-disasters-1766568207775">Yearender 2025: The year of wars, tariff turmoil, and climate disasters</a><h2> </h2><h2>‘Their alliance driven by political desperation, not ideology,’ says CM Fadnavis </h2> Fadnavis further said that the alliance of the Thackeray cousins was driven by political desperation and not ideology.“In a desperate attempt to save their existence, they have joined hands, believing that no party can win alone. However, the people of Maharashtra have seen our work, and it is on that basis that the Mahayuti will emerge victorious,” he said. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-divine-intervention-helped-pakistan-during-may-conflict-with-india-asim-munir-1766337259952">‘Divine intervention’ helped Pakistan during May conflict with India: Asim Munir</a> Earlier in the day, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray announced an alliance for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections.Raj said, “Maharashtra was waiting for this day for a long time. I declare today that Shiv Sena and MNS are united.”Elections to 29 municipal corporations in Mumbai, Nashik and other cities are scheduled to be held on January 15. The BMC polls are seen as the most crucial for the alliance, as the undivided Shiv Sena ruled the BMC for three decades. Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hindu-rickshaw-puller-wearing-red-thread-branded-raw-agent-assaulted-by-mob-in-bangladesh-1766322679454">Hindu rickshaw puller wearing red thread branded ‘RAW agent’, assaulted by mob in Bangladesh</a><h2> </h2><h2>Uddhav uses CM Yogi’s coined slogan ‘batenge toh katenge’ to seal alliance </h2> The Shiv Sena (UBT) chief sealed the alliance by using the “batenge toh katenge” slogan coined by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, and warned that lack of unity would be catastrophic.“We will make sure that Marathi people get what they want,” said Raj.“Mumbai will get a Marathi mayor,” said Raj. Uddhav said, “Mumbai will stay with us, come what may.” Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/-after-all-shri-hanuman-finally-serves-replies-eam-when-asked-if-india-needs-more-than-one-jaishankar-1766243874365">‘After all, Shri Hanuman finally serves…,’ replies EAM when asked if India needs more than one Jaishankar? WATCH</a> Marathi identity politics was championed by Bal Thackeray, Raj’s uncle and Uddhav’s father, and emerged as a defining factor in the state politics from time to time. The Thackeray cousins also called for those unhappy in the Shinde Sena-BJP coalition to join their alliance. “Those who can’t bear to see what is happening in the BJP can also come with us,” Uddhav said.

CM Devendra Fadnavis said the new alliance is between two parties that have lost their identity. He added that the Thackeray cousins have lost their vote bank by doing politics of appeasement and their coming together will have no impact.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis brushed off the reunion of the Thackeray cousins on Wednesday and said their alliance for the Maharashtra civic polls will not have any impact. Reacting to the alliance of the two long-estranged cousins Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray coming together, Fadnavis told reporters, “The hype is being created in such a way as if Russia and Ukraine have come together... and Zelenskyy and Putin are talking.” Fadnavis said that the Thackeray brothers have come together for their fight for existence, adding that Marathi manoos will vote only for the Mahayuti.

CM Devendra Fadnavis said the new alliance is between two parties that have lost their identity. He added that the Thackeray cousins have lost their vote bank by doing politics of appeasement and their coming together will have no impact.

Fadnavis mocks Uddhav-Raj Thackeray reunion, says, ‘As if Russia and Ukraine came together’

In a significant political development ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray have announced an alliance, ending nearly two decades of political estrangement between the Thackeray cousins.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The move is being seen as a potential game-changer in Mumbai’s fiercely contested civic battle.

The alliance aims to consolidate the Marathi vote in Mumbai and challenge the ruling Mahayuti alliance led by the BJP, Eknath Shinde–led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar–led NCP. 

With the BMC polls expected to be held after a prolonged delay, experts say the coming together of Uddhav and Raj signals a strategic attempt to reclaim the civic body that the undivided Shiv Sena had controlled uninterrupted for over 25 years.
&nbsp;
Announcing the tie-up, both leaders stressed the need to protect Mumbai’s identity and Marathi interests. Uddhav Thackeray said the alliance was driven by “Mumbai’s future and Maharashtra’s self-respect,” while Raj Thackeray described it as a “natural political reunion” necessitated by the current political circumstances.

The BMC, Asia’s richest municipal corporation with a budget running into tens of thousands of crores, controls key civic infrastructure, urban planning, and public services in Mumbai.&nbsp;

Control over the 227-member civic body is therefore considered politically crucial, especially with the Maharashtra Assembly elections also on the horizon.

Political observers say the UBT–MNS alliance could significantly alter electoral arithmetic in several key wards, particularly in central and south Mumbai, where both parties traditionally enjoy support.&nbsp;

In previous elections, a split in the Marathi vote had often benefited the BJP and its allies. A united Thackeray front could now pose a formidable challenge.

Seat-sharing talks between the two parties are underway, with leaders indicating that a “respectable and balanced” formula will be worked out to avoid internal competition.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The ruling Mahayuti, meanwhile, has downplayed the impact of the alliance, asserting that governance and development will remain the core election issues. 

However, senior BJP leaders have privately acknowledged that the Uddhav–Raj reunion could make the BMC contest more competitive than anticipated.
&nbsp;
As Mumbai heads towards the long-pending civic polls, the Thackeray cousins’ political reunion has injected fresh momentum into the campaign, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle over the city’s civic and political future. 

The BMC elections are set to take place on 15th January 2016, with counting on 16th January 2026.&nbsp;

The move is being seen as a potential game-changer in Mumbai’s fiercely contested civic battle. The alliance aims to consolidate the Marathi vote in Mumbai and challenge the ruling Mahayuti alliance led by the BJP, Eknath Shinde–led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar–led NCP. 

In a significant political development ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray have announced an alliance, ending nearly two decades of political estrangement between the Thackeray cousins. The move is being seen as a potential game-changer in Mumbai’s fiercely contested civic battle. The alliance aims to consolidate the Marathi vote in Mumbai and challenge the ruling Mahayuti alliance led by the BJP, Eknath Shinde–led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar–led NCP. With the BMC polls expected to be held after a prolonged delay, experts say the coming together of Uddhav and Raj signals a strategic attempt to reclaim the civic body that the undivided Shiv Sena had controlled uninterrupted for over 25 years. Announcing the tie-up, both leaders stressed the need to protect Mumbai’s identity and Marathi interests. Uddhav Thackeray said the alliance was driven by “Mumbai’s future and Maharashtra’s self-respect,” while Raj Thackeray described it as a “natural political reunion” necessitated by the current political circumstances. The BMC, Asia’s richest municipal corporation with a budget running into tens of thousands of crores, controls key civic infrastructure, urban planning, and public services in Mumbai. Control over the 227-member civic body is therefore considered politically crucial, especially with the Maharashtra Assembly elections also on the horizon. Political observers say the UBT–MNS alliance could significantly alter electoral arithmetic in several key wards, particularly in central and south Mumbai, where both parties traditionally enjoy support. In previous elections, a split in the Marathi vote had often benefited the BJP and its allies. A united Thackeray front could now pose a formidable challenge. Seat-sharing talks between the two parties are underway, with leaders indicating that a “respectable and balanced” formula will be worked out to avoid internal competition. The ruling Mahayuti, meanwhile, has downplayed the impact of the alliance, asserting that governance and development will remain the core election issues. However, senior BJP leaders have privately acknowledged that the Uddhav–Raj reunion could make the BMC contest more competitive than anticipated. As Mumbai heads towards the long-pending civic polls, the Thackeray cousins’ political reunion has injected fresh momentum into the campaign, setting the stage for a high-stakes battle over the city’s civic and political future. The BMC elections are set to take place on 15th January 2016, with counting on 16th January 2026.

The move is being seen as a potential game-changer in Mumbai’s fiercely contested civic battle. The alliance aims to consolidate the Marathi vote in Mumbai and challenge the ruling Mahayuti alliance led by the BJP, Eknath Shinde–led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar–led NCP.&nbsp;

After two decades, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray join hands for crucial BMC polls

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey on Thursday attacked Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray over the Hindi-Marathi row, claiming they thrash only poor people for not speaking Maharashtra's native language. He dared the cousins, who recently displayed bonhomie after over two decades of estrangement, to attack prominent people who speak "very little" Marathi, including billionaire Mukesh Ambani.&nbsp;Nishikant Dubey's sharp remark came amid a row kicked up by several videos of the assault of people who couldn't speak in Marathi. At a joint rally last week, Raj Thackeray advised his party's workers to hit below the eardrums those who "do drama" over the language.&nbsp;Dubey, a Lok Sabha MP, said the Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS must thrash prominent people who don't speak the language.&nbsp;"You beat up the poor. But Mukesh Ambani lives there, and he speaks very little Marathi. If you have guts, go to him. Mahim has a large Muslim population. If you have guts, go there. SBI chairman doesn't speak Marathi, try hitting him," he said.&nbsp;Ambani, one of the richest people in the world, lives in India's financial capital, Mumbai.&nbsp;Earlier this week, Dubey took exception to Raj Thackeray's remark, claiming Maharashtra got its wealth because of the contribution of other states.&nbsp;"What are you doing? Whose bread are you eating? You people are surviving on our money. What kind of industries do you have? We have all the mines in Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. What mines do you have? All semiconductor refineries are in Gujarat," he said.&nbsp;Dubey had also dared them to visit Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. "Tumko patal patak ke maarenge (They will thrash you very badly)," he added.&nbsp;The controversy erupted after some traders in Mumbai were thrashed by MNS workers for not speaking in Marathi.

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey on Thursday attacked Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray over the Hindi-Marathi row, claiming they thrash only the poor for not speaking Maharashtra's native language.

BJP MP Nishikant Dubey on Thursday attacked Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray over the Hindi-Marathi row, claiming they thrash only poor people for not speaking Maharashtra's native language. He dared the cousins, who recently displayed bonhomie after over two decades of estrangement, to attack prominent people who speak "very little" Marathi, including billionaire Mukesh Ambani. Nishikant Dubey's sharp remark came amid a row kicked up by several videos of the assault of people who couldn't speak in Marathi. At a joint rally last week, Raj Thackeray advised his party's workers to hit below the eardrums those who "do drama" over the language. Dubey, a Lok Sabha MP, said the Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS must thrash prominent people who don't speak the language. "You beat up the poor. But Mukesh Ambani lives there, and he speaks very little Marathi. If you have guts, go to him. Mahim has a large Muslim population. If you have guts, go there. SBI chairman doesn't speak Marathi, try hitting him," he said. Ambani, one of the richest people in the world, lives in India's financial capital, Mumbai. Earlier this week, Dubey took exception to Raj Thackeray's remark, claiming Maharashtra got its wealth because of the contribution of other states. "What are you doing? Whose bread are you eating? You people are surviving on our money. What kind of industries do you have? We have all the mines in Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. What mines do you have? All semiconductor refineries are in Gujarat," he said. Dubey had also dared them to visit Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu. "Tumko patal patak ke maarenge (They will thrash you very badly)," he added. The controversy erupted after some traders in Mumbai were thrashed by MNS workers for not speaking in Marathi.

Nishikant Dubey, a Lok Sabha MP, said the Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS must thrash prominent people who don't speak the language.

'You beat poor...': BJP MP gives big Mukesh Ambani dare to Raj Thackeray, Uddhav Thackeray

A political controversy has been brewing in the western Indian state of Maharashtra after some attacks on North Indians over not speaking the Marathi language. Now, a video is going viral showing a Marathi man being 'caught' working in the northern state of Haryana. Here is what happened:&nbsp;<h2>What happened when a Marathi man was found working in Haryana?</h2>In the video, a man with the Instagram handle @notthatmanusharma approaches a Marathi, working at what appeared to be a farm in Haryana. He asks, "who is from Maharashtra? Call him." &nbsp;When asked where he is from, the Marathi says he hails from Nashik city in Maharashtra. "Speak in Haryanvi," demands the north Indian, and the Marathi says he doesn't know the language, which is a dialect of Hindi. "Then, how did you come here?," asks the north Indian. After a moment of tense silence, the north indian laughs and hugs the Marathi, saying, "if you don't work here, who will?"&nbsp;"This is your nation. Do what you like," adds the north Indian. "This is India, Bharat."&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This video is for MNS Goons A maharashtrian was found working in Haryana by Haryanvis Look what happened to him … <a href="https://t.co/Q19yYDZsEb">pic.twitter.com/Q19yYDZsEb</a>&mdash; Flt Lt Anoop Verma (Retd.) 🇮🇳 (@FltLtAnoopVerma) <a href="https://twitter.com/FltLtAnoopVerma/status/1943140884545180030?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2> The slapping incident in Maharashtra targeting North Indians. What happened?</h2>The video, which could have been a planned shooting, came in apparent response to an incident earlier this month in Mira Bhayandar in Maharashtra's Thane district. Seven workers of Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) assaulted a sweet shop owner, Babulal Chaudhary, for not speaking Marathi. The MNS workers entered 48-year-old Chaudhary’s Jodhpur Sweets shop asking for water. When Chaudhary’s staffer Bagharam, who is from Rajasthan, responded in Hindi, the MNS workers demanded that they speak Marathi. Chaudhary said “all languages are spoken in Maharashtra,” which provoked the MNS workers, who repeatedly slapped the north Indian.&nbsp; <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/marathi-language-controversy-spark-protests-and-political-shutdown-in-maharashtra-1752035425836/embed">https://www.wionews.com/videos/marathi-language-controversy-spark-protests-and-political-shutdown-in-maharashtra-1752035425836/embed</a><h2>What happened after the slapping incident in Thane?</h2>Police detained the seven MNS workers involved in the Thane slapping incident. But they were released on bail later. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who is from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), &nbsp;condemned the violence and warned of police action.&nbsp;But several MNS leaders like Sandeep Rane defended the MNS workers, describing the slap incident as a reaction to Chaudhary’s ‘arrogance’ and alleged insult to the Marathi language.&nbsp;<h2>Hindi vs Marathi: The issue behind assaults on non-Marathi speaking people</h2>The Thane incident is an example of a broader campaign by MNS against what it calls insults to the Marathi language and culture. The MNS is agitating against what they deem as the imposition of Hindi in schools.<h2>Anti-north Indian sentiment intensified after the Hindi language row</h2>Part of the reason for MNS digging deep into its regionalist ideology is the upcoming civic elections.&nbsp; MNS stands for Marathi pride and seeks preferential treatment for the local Marathi-speaking people.&nbsp; In 2008, MNS workers clashed with Samajwadi Party supporters in Mumbai, reacting to what they called were provocative" displays by migrants from north Indian states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar.&nbsp; The violent incidents at the time catapulted MNS founder &nbsp;Raj Thackeray to prominence. He alleged that the migrants were undermining Maharashtra culture and taking away job opportunities from locals.<h2>The political angle: MNS wants a comeback with Udhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena. And Hindi is a good alibi</h2>Earlier this year, the BJP-led Maharashtra government proposed the introduction of Hindi as a third language in the states primary schools. It was opposed by erstwhile rivals MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT). Shiv Sena (UBT) is the faction led by Uddhav Thackeray, the son of Bal Thackeray, who founded Shiv Sena.&nbsp;After the protests, the BJP-led government was forced to roll back the Hindi policy.<h2>Anti-Hindi agitation unites former rivals Raj and Uddhav Thackeray</h2>After the Hindi language policy rollback, former rivals Raj and his cousin Uddhav Thackeray came together on the same stage for the first time in nearly two decades to mark the ‘Marathi Vijay Diwas’ or victory day.&nbsp; The July 5 event at Mumbai’s Worli Dome was a signal of a likely alliance between Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS to garner Marathi votes ahead of the civic elections.

The video appears to be a response to an incident earlier this month in Maharashtra's Thane district, where seven workers of Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) assaulted a sweet shop owner, Babulal Chaudhary, for not speaking Marathi. 

A political controversy has been brewing in the western Indian state of Maharashtra after some attacks on North Indians over not speaking the Marathi language. Now, a video is going viral showing a Marathi man being 'caught' working in the northern state of Haryana. Here is what happened: What happened when a Marathi man was found working in Haryana? In the video, a man with the Instagram handle @notthatmanusharma approaches a Marathi, working at what appeared to be a farm in Haryana. He asks, "who is from Maharashtra? Call him." When asked where he is from, the Marathi says he hails from Nashik city in Maharashtra. "Speak in Haryanvi," demands the north Indian, and the Marathi says he doesn't know the language, which is a dialect of Hindi. "Then, how did you come here?," asks the north Indian. After a moment of tense silence, the north indian laughs and hugs the Marathi, saying, "if you don't work here, who will?" "This is your nation. Do what you like," adds the north Indian. "This is India, Bharat."

The video appears to be a response to an incident earlier this month in Maharashtra's Thane district, where seven workers of Raj Thackeray-led Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) assaulted a sweet shop owner, Babulal Chaudhary, for not speaking Marathi.&nbsp;

'This is your nation, do what you'...: A Marathi was found working in Haryana amid anti-north Indian sentiment in Maharashtra. Then, this happened

Balasaheb Thackeray is a name synonymous with Marathi pride, culture, and history. He began his career as a political cartoonist for The Free Press Journal (FPJ) but later left that to establish the Shiv Sena party in 1966. The core goal of the Shiv Sena was to advocate for the rights of the Marathi people. Over time, the Shiv Sena evolved into a powerful political force in Maharashtra. As Balasaheb grew older, he passed the leadership of Shiv Sena to his son, Uddhav Thackeray, naming him the working president in 2003. This decision was disliked by Balasaheb’s nephew, Raj Thackeray. Feeling sidelined, Raj parted ways in 2005 and formed his party, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), in 2006.&nbsp;For years, both cousins led their separate political paths. In 2014, the BJP and Shiv Sena contested the Maharashtra Assembly elections together, but faced intense heat over seat-sharing. Eventually, they did not fight the elections together. BJP emerged as the single largest party and formed the government under Devendra Fadnavis, with Shiv Sena joining later. Uddhav accepted a smaller role in government, but the tension continued to grow.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-balasaheb-raj-to-uddhav-thackeray-understanding-the-family-tree-of-maharashtras-biggest-political-dynasty-1751710151861">'From Balasaheb, Raj to Uddhav Thackeray': Understanding the family tree of Maharashtra's biggest political dynasty</a>&nbsp;On the other hand, Raj Thackeray’s MNS showed early promise, especially in the 2009 Maharashtra Assembly Elections, where the party won 13 seats and gained significant support in urban areas like Mumbai and Pune.&nbsp;The real turning point came in 2019. After winning the elections again, Uddhav refused to accept a junior role and demanded a 50-50 power-sharing deal, including a chance to be CM for 2.5 years. The BJP didn’t agree and the alliance broke down. In a stunning move, Uddhav joined hands with former rivals the NCP and Congress to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). Uddhav Thackeray was sworn in as Chief Minister of Maharashtra, marking a major shift in Maharashtra’s politics.&nbsp;However, in July 2022, Eknath Shinde led a massive rebellion within Shiv Sena, splitting the party and joining hands with the BJP to collapse the Uddhav government. In a major twist, Eknath Shinde was sworn in as the Chief Minister with Devendra Fadnavis as his deputy. Eventually, the Election Commission recognised Shinde’s group as the “real Shiv Sena,” giving him the party name and symbol.&nbsp;The BJP and the Shinde-led Sena then joined forces with Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction. Under this government, a GR (government resolution) was issued according to the 2020 National Educational Policy (NEP), which stated three languages in the academic curriculum. With English and Marathi being the primary two languages, the government added Hindi as the third language.&nbsp;This sparked a strong reaction from both Raj and Uddhav Thackeray as they feared Hindi was on the Marathi people. Though politically apart for almost 20 years, they united in protest against Hindi imposition in the state. They said this was not just a language issue but a matter of Marathi identity. &nbsp;

 Under this government, a GR (government resolution) was issued according to the 2020 National Educational Policy (NEP), which stated three languages in the academic curriculum. With English and Marathi being the primary two languages, the government added Hindi as the third language.

Balasaheb Thackeray is a name synonymous with Marathi pride, culture, and history. He began his career as a political cartoonist for The Free Press Journal (FPJ) but later left that to establish the Shiv Sena party in 1966. The core goal of the Shiv Sena was to advocate for the rights of the Marathi people. Over time, the Shiv Sena evolved into a powerful political force in Maharashtra. As Balasaheb grew older, he passed the leadership of Shiv Sena to his son, Uddhav Thackeray, naming him the working president in 2003. This decision was disliked by Balasaheb’s nephew, Raj Thackeray. Feeling sidelined, Raj parted ways in 2005 and formed his party, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), in 2006. For years, both cousins led their separate political paths. In 2014, the BJP and Shiv Sena contested the Maharashtra Assembly elections together, but faced intense heat over seat-sharing. Eventually, they did not fight the elections together. BJP emerged as the single largest party and formed the government under Devendra Fadnavis, with Shiv Sena joining later. Uddhav accepted a smaller role in government, but the tension continued to grow. Also Read | 'From Balasaheb, Raj to Uddhav Thackeray': Understanding the family tree of Maharashtra's biggest political dynasty On the other hand, Raj Thackeray’s MNS showed early promise, especially in the 2009 Maharashtra Assembly Elections, where the party won 13 seats and gained significant support in urban areas like Mumbai and Pune. The real turning point came in 2019. After winning the elections again, Uddhav refused to accept a junior role and demanded a 50-50 power-sharing deal, including a chance to be CM for 2.5 years. The BJP didn’t agree and the alliance broke down. In a stunning move, Uddhav joined hands with former rivals the NCP and Congress to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). Uddhav Thackeray was sworn in as Chief Minister of Maharashtra, marking a major shift in Maharashtra’s politics. However, in July 2022, Eknath Shinde led a massive rebellion within Shiv Sena, splitting the party and joining hands with the BJP to collapse the Uddhav government. In a major twist, Eknath Shinde was sworn in as the Chief Minister with Devendra Fadnavis as his deputy. Eventually, the Election Commission recognised Shinde’s group as the “real Shiv Sena,” giving him the party name and symbol. The BJP and the Shinde-led Sena then joined forces with Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction. Under this government, a GR (government resolution) was issued according to the 2020 National Educational Policy (NEP), which stated three languages in the academic curriculum. With English and Marathi being the primary two languages, the government added Hindi as the third language. This sparked a strong reaction from both Raj and Uddhav Thackeray as they feared Hindi was on the Marathi people. Though politically apart for almost 20 years, they united in protest against Hindi imposition in the state. They said this was not just a language issue but a matter of Marathi identity.

&nbsp;Under this government, a GR (government resolution) was issued according to the 2020 National Educational Policy (NEP), which stated three languages in the academic curriculum. With English and Marathi being the primary two languages, the government added Hindi as the third language.

Thackeray re-union: Timeline of events in Raj and Uddhav political career

After nearly two decades of political estrangement, cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray shared a stage for the first time since 2005 at a joint public rally titled 'Awaj Marathicha' in Mumbai. The event marked a significant turn in Maharashtra’s political landscape, signalling a potential realignment of Marathi-centric politics. Organised by Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), the rally followed the Maharashtra government’s rollback of a controversial decision to introduce Hindi as a third language from Class 1 in state schools.&nbsp;&nbsp;Uddhav said, "We have come together to stay together… We have united to protect Marathi." Raj Thackeray, on the increasing violence against the Non-Marathi speakers said, “Be it Gujarati or anyone else here, they must know Marathi, but there is no need to beat people for that if they don’t speak Marathi. But if someone shows useless drama, you must hit below their eardrums. I tell you one more thing: if you beat someone, don’t make a video of the incident. Let the person beaten up tell that he has been beaten up, you don’t need to tell everyone that you have beaten someone.”&nbsp;With Maharashtra's political landscape shifting once again, and the two Thackeray cousins reuniting, it is important to look back at the history and lineage of the Thackeray family.&nbsp;<h2>The Thackeray Family Legacy</h2>&nbsp;The Thackeray family’s political journey began with Keshav Sitaram Thackeray, popularly known as Prabodhankar Thackeray. He was a social reformer and a key figure in the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement advocating for a separate Marathi-speaking state. His son, Balasaheb Thackeray, was the founder of the Shiv Sena in 1966. Originally a cartoonist, Balasaheb turned to politics to assert the rights of the Marathi manoos. Known for his hardline views and authoritative style, Balasaheb never held public office but under his leadership the Shiv Sena became a dominant political force in the western Indian state of Maharashtra.&nbsp;Balasaheb had three sons – Bindumadhav (deceased), Jaidev (estranged), and Uddhav, who emerged as his political successor. Bindumadhav died in a car accident on 20 April 1996 at the age of 42 when he was returning from a holiday in Lonavala. Jaidev, who is the middle son, is estranged from the family. The trouble began as early a 1990s, when Jaidev separated from his first wife Jayashree Kalelkar. Bal Thackeray felt that the fallout of this relationship hurt the family. Jaidev has largely stayed out of politics, hi relationship with his father was complicated.&nbsp;His nephew Raj Thackeray, son of Balasaheb’s brother Shrikant, was initially viewed as the natural heir to the Sena’s legacy. However, growing tensions within the party over succession led to Raj’s departure in 2006. He subsequently formed the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, positioning it as a more aggressive, youth-focused alternative.&nbsp;Aaditya Thackeray, Uddhav’s son and Balasaheb’s grandson, represents the third generation of the Thackeray political legacy. Born in 1990, Aaditya remains the key youth face of the Shiv Sena (UBT) and is widely seen as Uddhav’s political successor.<h2>Split in the Sena and Decline at the Polls</h2>&nbsp;After Balasaheb’s death in 2012, Uddhav Thackeray formally took over the reins of the Shiv Sena. In 2019, he led the party into an unlikely alliance with the NCP and Congress to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, becoming Chief Minister. However, in June 2022, a faction led by senior leader Eknath Shinde split from the Sena, allying with the BJP and toppling the MVA. This led to a legal and political contest over the Shiv Sena name and symbol, ultimately awarded to the Shinde-led faction by the Election Commission.&nbsp;The 2024 Lok Sabha elections dealt a blow to both cousins. Uddhav’s faction, contesting under the MVA umbrella, won only 9 of 48 seats in Maharashtra. Raj Thackeray’s MNS did not win a single seat and has not contested state elections since 2014. In the current 288-member Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Uddhav's Shiv Sena (UBT) holds 16 seats, while the Shinde-led Shiv Sena has 39 seats. The BJP leads with 105 seats, forming the Mahayuti government in alliance with Shinde's faction and Ajit Pawar’s NCP.&nbsp;<h2>Political Reconciliation and Future Implications &nbsp;</h2>The Awaj Marathicha rally has been pitched as a victory celebration for the preservation of Marathi linguistic identity, but the larger subtext is the renewed partnership of the Thackeray cousins. Uddhav stated, "This is just a trailer. This is just the beginning," suggesting further joint political activity in the lead-up to the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections. Whether this reunion leads to a formal alliance or remains symbolic remains to be seen.&nbsp; &nbsp;

With Maharashtra's political landscape shifting once again, and the two Thackeray cousins reuniting, it is important to look back at the history and lineage of the Thackeray family. The family's political roots trace back to Keshav Sitaram Thackeray, widely known as Prabodhankar Thackeray.

After nearly two decades of political estrangement, cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray shared a stage for the first time since 2005 at a joint public rally titled 'Awaj Marathicha' in Mumbai. The event marked a significant turn in Maharashtra’s political landscape, signalling a potential realignment of Marathi-centric politics. Organised by Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), the rally followed the Maharashtra government’s rollback of a controversial decision to introduce Hindi as a third language from Class 1 in state schools. Uddhav said, "We have come together to stay together… We have united to protect Marathi." Raj Thackeray, on the increasing violence against the Non-Marathi speakers said, “Be it Gujarati or anyone else here, they must know Marathi, but there is no need to beat people for that if they don’t speak Marathi. But if someone shows useless drama, you must hit below their eardrums. I tell you one more thing: if you beat someone, don’t make a video of the incident. Let the person beaten up tell that he has been beaten up, you don’t need to tell everyone that you have beaten someone.” With Maharashtra's political landscape shifting once again, and the two Thackeray cousins reuniting, it is important to look back at the history and lineage of the Thackeray family. The Thackeray Family Legacy The Thackeray family’s political journey began with Keshav Sitaram Thackeray, popularly known as Prabodhankar Thackeray. He was a social reformer and a key figure in the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement advocating for a separate Marathi-speaking state. His son, Balasaheb Thackeray, was the founder of the Shiv Sena in 1966. Originally a cartoonist, Balasaheb turned to politics to assert the rights of the Marathi manoos. Known for his hardline views and authoritative style, Balasaheb never held public office but under his leadership the Shiv Sena became a dominant political force in the western Indian state of Maharashtra. Balasaheb had three sons – Bindumadhav (deceased), Jaidev (estranged), and Uddhav, who emerged as his political successor. Bindumadhav died in a car accident on 20 April 1996 at the age of 42 when he was returning from a holiday in Lonavala. Jaidev, who is the middle son, is estranged from the family. The trouble began as early a 1990s, when Jaidev separated from his first wife Jayashree Kalelkar. Bal Thackeray felt that the fallout of this relationship hurt the family. Jaidev has largely stayed out of politics, hi relationship with his father was complicated. His nephew Raj Thackeray, son of Balasaheb’s brother Shrikant, was initially viewed as the natural heir to the Sena’s legacy. However, growing tensions within the party over succession led to Raj’s departure in 2006. He subsequently formed the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, positioning it as a more aggressive, youth-focused alternative. Aaditya Thackeray, Uddhav’s son and Balasaheb’s grandson, represents the third generation of the Thackeray political legacy. Born in 1990, Aaditya remains the key youth face of the Shiv Sena (UBT) and is widely seen as Uddhav’s political successor. Split in the Sena and Decline at the Polls After Balasaheb’s death in 2012, Uddhav Thackeray formally took over the reins of the Shiv Sena. In 2019, he led the party into an unlikely alliance with the NCP and Congress to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, becoming Chief Minister. However, in June 2022, a faction led by senior leader Eknath Shinde split from the Sena, allying with the BJP and toppling the MVA. This led to a legal and political contest over the Shiv Sena name and symbol, ultimately awarded to the Shinde-led faction by the Election Commission. The 2024 Lok Sabha elections dealt a blow to both cousins. Uddhav’s faction, contesting under the MVA umbrella, won only 9 of 48 seats in Maharashtra. Raj Thackeray’s MNS did not win a single seat and has not contested state elections since 2014. In the current 288-member Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, Uddhav's Shiv Sena (UBT) holds 16 seats, while the Shinde-led Shiv Sena has 39 seats. The BJP leads with 105 seats, forming the Mahayuti government in alliance with Shinde's faction and Ajit Pawar’s NCP. Political Reconciliation and Future Implications The Awaj Marathicha rally has been pitched as a victory celebration for the preservation of Marathi linguistic identity, but the larger subtext is the renewed partnership of the Thackeray cousins. Uddhav stated, "This is just a trailer. This is just the beginning," suggesting further joint political activity in the lead-up to the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections. Whether this reunion leads to a formal alliance or remains symbolic remains to be seen.

With Maharashtra's political landscape shifting once again, and the two Thackeray cousins reuniting, it is important to look back at the history and lineage of the Thackeray family. The family's political roots trace back to Keshav Sitaram Thackeray, widely known as Prabodhankar Thackeray.

'From Balasaheb, Raj to Uddhav Thackeray': Understanding the family tree of Maharashtra's biggest political dynasty

After nearly two decades of estrangement, cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray on Saturday announced their reunion as they addressed a joint rally in Mumbai to oppose the alleged imposition of the Hindi language over Maharashtra by the BJP-led state government. "We have come together to stay together", Uddhav Thackeray said while addressing the gathering.&nbsp;Speaking at the rally, Uddhav Thackeray, the supremo of Shiv Sena (UBT), defended his party's policies and attacked the opposition. He claimed the opposition calls their workers goondas (goons) for defending Hindus during riots.&nbsp;"You (Shiv Sena) have used us enough already. If you didn't have the support of Balasaheb Thackeray, who knew you in Maharashtra. Who are you to teach us about Hindutva? When riots were happening in Mumbai, we, the Marathi people, had saved every Hindu in Maharashtra, be it anyone. If you are calling Marathi people 'gundas' doing their protest, seeking justice. Then yes, we are gunda," he added.&nbsp;He also lauded his cousin, Raj Thackeray's, oratory.&nbsp;"Since we announced this program, everyone was eagerly waiting for our speech today, but in my view, we are both coming together, and this stage was more important than our speeches. Raj has already given a very outstanding speech, and I think there is no need for me to speak now," Uddhav Thackeray said.&nbsp;Uddhav alleged that the BJP-led Centre has pushed Mumbai's important establishments to Gujarat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's native state.&nbsp;"They always ask us what we did for the Marathi people in Mumbai during our rule in BMC. They all forced Marathi people to go out of Mumbai, but now we are asking a question: in the last 11 years of your rule, what have you done? You have pushed away Mumbai's important establishments to Gujarat. Businesses are being transferred to Gujarat. Big offices are going to Gujarat. The diamond business has already shifted to Gujarat, so you have made all attempts to break the backbone of Maharashtra and continue to do that, and you are asking questions to us", Uddhav Thackeray said.&nbsp;Earlier, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray shared a hug at the Worli Dome in Mumbai. They garlanded the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj.<h2>What Raj Thackeray said</h2>Raj Thackeray said that for him, Maharashtra is bigger than any politics and fight. He also said that those living in Maharashtra must know Marathi.&nbsp;"Be it Gujarati or anyone else here, they must know Marathi, but there is no need to beat people for that if they don’t speak Marathi. But if someone shows useless drama, you must hit below their eardrums. I tell you one more thing: if you beat someone, don’t make a video of the incident. Let the person beaten up tell that he has been beaten up, you don’t need to tell everyone that you have beaten someone," he said.

After nearly two decades of estrangement, cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray on Saturday announced their reunion as they addressed a joint rally in Mumbai to oppose the alleged imposition of the Hindi language over Maharashtra by the state government. 

After nearly two decades of estrangement, cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray on Saturday announced their reunion as they addressed a joint rally in Mumbai to oppose the alleged imposition of the Hindi language over Maharashtra by the BJP-led state government. "We have come together to stay together", Uddhav Thackeray said while addressing the gathering. Speaking at the rally, Uddhav Thackeray, the supremo of Shiv Sena (UBT), defended his party's policies and attacked the opposition. He claimed the opposition calls their workers goondas (goons) for defending Hindus during riots. "You (Shiv Sena) have used us enough already. If you didn't have the support of Balasaheb Thackeray, who knew you in Maharashtra. Who are you to teach us about Hindutva? When riots were happening in Mumbai, we, the Marathi people, had saved every Hindu in Maharashtra, be it anyone. If you are calling Marathi people 'gundas' doing their protest, seeking justice. Then yes, we are gunda," he added. He also lauded his cousin, Raj Thackeray's, oratory. "Since we announced this program, everyone was eagerly waiting for our speech today, but in my view, we are both coming together, and this stage was more important than our speeches. Raj has already given a very outstanding speech, and I think there is no need for me to speak now," Uddhav Thackeray said. Uddhav alleged that the BJP-led Centre has pushed Mumbai's important establishments to Gujarat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's native state. "They always ask us what we did for the Marathi people in Mumbai during our rule in BMC. They all forced Marathi people to go out of Mumbai, but now we are asking a question: in the last 11 years of your rule, what have you done? You have pushed away Mumbai's important establishments to Gujarat. Businesses are being transferred to Gujarat. Big offices are going to Gujarat. The diamond business has already shifted to Gujarat, so you have made all attempts to break the backbone of Maharashtra and continue to do that, and you are asking questions to us", Uddhav Thackeray said. Earlier, Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray shared a hug at the Worli Dome in Mumbai. They garlanded the statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. What Raj Thackeray said Raj Thackeray said that for him, Maharashtra is bigger than any politics and fight. He also said that those living in Maharashtra must know Marathi. "Be it Gujarati or anyone else here, they must know Marathi, but there is no need to beat people for that if they don’t speak Marathi. But if someone shows useless drama, you must hit below their eardrums. I tell you one more thing: if you beat someone, don’t make a video of the incident. Let the person beaten up tell that he has been beaten up, you don’t need to tell everyone that you have beaten someone," he said.

Uddhav Thackeray, the supremo of Shiv Sena (UBT), defended his party's policies and attacked the opposition. He claimed the opposition calls their workers goondas (goons) for defending Hindus during riots.

At reunion, Raj Thackeray's 'hit below eardrums' remark; Uddhav Thackeray says 'we are gundas if...'

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) Chief Raj Thackeray was seen sharing a rare, candid moment with his estranged cousin, Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT), and Uddhav&rsquo;s wife, Rashmi Thackeray, at the wedding of the son of Mahendra Kalyankar in Andheri, Mumbai, on Sunday night (Feb 23).&nbsp;
The wedding function served as the unlikely setting for this interaction between the two brothers, who have been estranged for almost two decades.
The pictures from the wedding, where the two can be seen sharing a hearty laugh, have sparked speculation about a possible reunion ahead of the upcoming civic polls in Maharashtra.
This was the third public meeting between the cousins in the last two months, amid rumours of a rift in both the ruling Mahayuti and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) camps.
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<h2>Why did Raj leave Shiv Sena?&nbsp;</h2>
Raj Thackeray left Shiv Sena in November 2005, after which he floated his own political party, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), in March 2006.&nbsp;
At the time of his resignation, he had told the media, &ldquo;I wouldn&rsquo;t wish a day such as today even on my worst enemy.&rdquo;
&ldquo;All I had asked for was respect (from Matoshree, the Bandra residence of Sena chief Bal Thackeray and his son, Uddhav). All I got was insult and humiliation,&rdquo; he said.
Raj pointed fingers at Uddhav for the Shiv Sena split after Eknath Shinde's defection, saying the latter was to blame for the division.&nbsp;
&ldquo;What happened? Neither Fadnavis played any role nor Amit Shah. You have to give credit to Uddhav (Thackeray). After all, it did not happen only once,&rdquo; Raj said in an interview with a local channel.
"Even some people accuse Sanjay Raut and his statements behind the collapse of the government, but that is not so. He comes and gives statements with arrogance. After all, when I left, the reasons were the same,&rdquo; he said.
"People who were around Uddhav now were the same when I left," Raj said. &ldquo;Ask Shinde about the reasons. The reasons are the same,&rdquo; he added.
(With inputs from agencies)

India news: Raj Thackeray left the Shiv Sena in November 2005, after which he floated his own political party, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), in March 2006.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) Chief Raj Thackeray was seen sharing a rare, candid moment with his estranged cousin, Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT), and Uddhav’s wife, Rashmi Thackeray, at the wedding of the son of Mahendra Kalyankar in Andheri, Mumbai, on Sunday night (Feb 23). The wedding function served as the unlikely setting for this interaction between the two brothers, who have been estranged for almost two decades. The pictures from the wedding, where the two can be seen sharing a hearty laugh, have sparked speculation about a possible reunion ahead of the upcoming civic polls in Maharashtra. This was the third public meeting between the cousins in the last two months, amid rumours of a rift in both the ruling Mahayuti and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) camps. Also read: PM Modi fires back at Lalu Yadav over 'faaltu hai kumbh' remark; 'Jungle Raj leaders abusing Maha Kumbh' Why did Raj leave Shiv Sena? Raj Thackeray left Shiv Sena in November 2005, after which he floated his own political party, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), in March 2006. At the time of his resignation, he had told the media, “I wouldn’t wish a day such as today even on my worst enemy.” “All I had asked for was respect (from Matoshree, the Bandra residence of Sena chief Bal Thackeray and his son, Uddhav). All I got was insult and humiliation,” he said. Raj pointed fingers at Uddhav for the Shiv Sena split after Eknath Shinde's defection, saying the latter was to blame for the division. “What happened? Neither Fadnavis played any role nor Amit Shah. You have to give credit to Uddhav (Thackeray). After all, it did not happen only once,” Raj said in an interview with a local channel. "Even some people accuse Sanjay Raut and his statements behind the collapse of the government, but that is not so. He comes and gives statements with arrogance. After all, when I left, the reasons were the same,” he said. "People who were around Uddhav now were the same when I left," Raj said. “Ask Shinde about the reasons. The reasons are the same,” he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Raj Thackeray and Uddhav meet at wedding, fuel speculation of reconciliation

Indian Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday (Jan 12) hit out at the Nationalist Congress Party (SCP) supremo Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray by saying that the people of Maharashtra have ended the politics of "betrayal" and "backstabbing" in the recently concluded assembly elections.
Addressing the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) state convention in Shirdi, Union Home Minister Shah said, "The politics of 'daga-phatka' (back-stabbing) that Sharad Pawar had been doing since 1978, the victory in Maharashtra (by you people) has buried it 20 feet under the ground."
Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-cabinet-portfolios-allocated-devendra-fadnavis-keeps-home-ministry-know-what-others-got-785877" rel="dofollow">Maharashtra cabinet portfolios allocated: Devendra Fadnavis keeps home ministry. Know what others got</a>
"Uddhav Thackeray had betrayed us, he left his ideology, he left the principles of Balasaheb Thackeray and became the Chief Minister in 2019 by using lies and deceit, you have shown him his place," he added.
<h2>Shah on Mahayuti's victory in Maharashtra polls</h2>
With the Mahayuti alliance (the BJP, the Shiv Sena, and the NCP- Ajit Pawar faction) securing a handsome win in the 2024 assembly elections, Amit Shah said the win was a milestone that put India's politics back on track.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Maharashtra: Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, "... The victory (of BJP) in Maharashtra ended the politics of instability and backstabbing started by Sharad Pawar in 1978. Uddhav Thackeray betrayed us, he left the ideology of Balasaheb in 2019. Today you have shown him&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/BzACZ9bOSJ">pic.twitter.com/BzACZ9bOSJ</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1878413738912735565?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 12, 2025</a></blockquote>

<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"The architects of this success are BJP workers. I salute all of you and thank the people of Maharashtra on behalf of the BJP. This victory is a hard slap on the face of those who engage in family politics," Shah added.
The Indian home minister further pointed out that the result also showed that Eknath Shinde's party was the real Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar's party was the real NCP.
<h2>'INDIA bloc is completely disintegrated'</h2>
During the event, Shah also said that the opposition INDIA bloc was completely disintegrated, adding that the alliance was not going to fight together in the Delhi assembly elections and the Mumbai municipal elections.
"Today the INDIA alliance has completely disintegrated. Mumbai is going to have elections and Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress are preparing to contest alone. Just like you gave us a grand victory in Maharashtra, in the same way, on February 8, 2025, the BJP government is going to be formed in Delhi. 2024 ended with the victory of Maharashtra and 2025 will begin with BJP's Delhi victory," Shah said.

India News Trending: The Indian home minister further pointed out that the result also showed that Eknath Shinde's party was the real Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar's party was the real NCP.

Indian Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday (Jan 12) hit out at the Nationalist Congress Party (SCP) supremo Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray by saying that the people of Maharashtra have ended the politics of "betrayal" and "backstabbing" in the recently concluded assembly elections. Addressing the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) state convention in Shirdi, Union Home Minister Shah said, "The politics of 'daga-phatka' (back-stabbing) that Sharad Pawar had been doing since 1978, the victory in Maharashtra (by you people) has buried it 20 feet under the ground." Also read | Maharashtra cabinet portfolios allocated: Devendra Fadnavis keeps home ministry. Know what others got "Uddhav Thackeray had betrayed us, he left his ideology, he left the principles of Balasaheb Thackeray and became the Chief Minister in 2019 by using lies and deceit, you have shown him his place," he added. Shah on Mahayuti's victory in Maharashtra polls With the Mahayuti alliance (the BJP, the Shiv Sena, and the NCP- Ajit Pawar faction) securing a handsome win in the 2024 assembly elections, Amit Shah said the win was a milestone that put India's politics back on track. #WATCH | Maharashtra: Union Home Minister Amit Shah says, "... The victory (of BJP) in Maharashtra ended the politics of instability and backstabbing started by Sharad Pawar in 1978. Uddhav Thackeray betrayed us, he left the ideology of Balasaheb in 2019. Today you have shown him… pic.twitter.com/BzACZ9bOSJ — ANI (@ANI) January 12, 2025 "The architects of this success are BJP workers. I salute all of you and thank the people of Maharashtra on behalf of the BJP. This victory is a hard slap on the face of those who engage in family politics," Shah added. The Indian home minister further pointed out that the result also showed that Eknath Shinde's party was the real Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar's party was the real NCP. 'INDIA bloc is completely disintegrated' During the event, Shah also said that the opposition INDIA bloc was completely disintegrated, adding that the alliance was not going to fight together in the Delhi assembly elections and the Mumbai municipal elections. "Today the INDIA alliance has completely disintegrated. Mumbai is going to have elections and Shiv Sena (UBT) and Congress are preparing to contest alone. Just like you gave us a grand victory in Maharashtra, in the same way, on February 8, 2025, the BJP government is going to be formed in Delhi. 2024 ended with the victory of Maharashtra and 2025 will begin with BJP's Delhi victory," Shah said.

People of Maharashtra ended politics of 'betrayal and back stabbing' in polls: Amit Shah

Chief Minister of the Indian state of Maharashtra Eknath Shinde hit out at his rival Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday (Nov 23) as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Mahayuti alliance appeared set for a landslide victory in the Maharashtra assembly elections.

Chief Minister of the Indian state of Maharashtra Eknath Shinde hit out at his rival Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday (Nov 23) as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Mahayuti alliance appeared set for a landslide victory in the Maharashtra assembly elections. Speaking at a press conference alongside Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, Shinde pointed towards the Shiv Sena’s improved performance. “In 2019, 54 Shiv Sena candidates had won. Now the number has gone up,” he said. 'We answered criticism with work' Shinde credited the alliance’s success to their work-focused approach, contrasting it with their critics. “We did not answer criticism with criticism. We answered it with work. And that is what appealed to the people. All of us would work with the people. You cannot run the government by being in your home. You have to go to the people,” he added. Also read: Maharashtra election results: Full list of winners and their constituencies He also reiterated his commitment to the vision of Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray. “We will carry on the ideals of Balasaheb Thackeray and form this government. A similar government should have been formed in 2019, but it was not. And people haven't forgotten that,” Shinde stated. Shinde retained the Kopri-Pachpakhadi assembly seat in Thane district, defeating Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate Kedar Dighe by a margin of 1,20,717 votes. Mahayuti alliance's landslide victory The Mahayuti alliance is on course to secure over 220 of the 288 assembly seats, leaving the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) far behind. According to the Election Commission's latest figures, the BJP had won 55 seats and was leading in 78, while the Shiv Sena had secured 28 seats and was ahead in 28 more. The NCP had won 25 seats and was leading in 16 constituencies. Shinde’s rise to power Shinde’s stint in power followed his 2022 rebellion against Uddhav Thackeray, who was then the chief minister in the MVA-led government. Shinde, along with 40 MLAs, broke away from the Shiv Sena. Thackeray resigned before a floor test, leading to the collapse of the coalition. On 30 June 2022, Shinde took over as chief minister, with Devendra Fadnavis sworn in as his deputy. Last year, Ajit Pawar also split the NCP and joined Shinde’s government as a second deputy chief minister. (With inputs from agencies)

Eknath Shinde slams Uddhav Thackeray after Mahayuti’s win in Maharashtra: 'Answered criticism with work'

It's election season in India as the states of Maharashtra and Jharkhand recently voted in assembly polls. The election for 288 seats in Maharashtra was held in a single phase on November 20, while Jharkhand voted in two phases – November 13 and November 20 – for a total of 81 assembly seats.

It's election season in India as the states of Maharashtra and Jharkhand recently voted in assembly polls. The election for 288 seats in Maharashtra was held in a single phase on November 20, while Jharkhand voted in two phases – November 13 and November 20 – for a total of 81 assembly seats. The counting of votes in Maharashtra and Jharkhand began at 8:00 am local time on Saturday (Nov 23). The counting of votes also began for 48 assembly and two Lok Sabha seats across 15 states. These elections come months after the Lok Sabha election was held in India, in which the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) emerged victorious, and formed the central government for a third consecutive term. Here's a look at the latest updates from the assembly election results in Maharashtra and Jharkhand: Maharashtra: > Latest trends from the Election Commission of India (ECI) show that the NDA-led Mahayuti is set for a landslide victory in Maharashtra. The Mahayuti comprises the BJP, the Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP- Ajit Pawar faction), and other smaller parties. Click here to follow all updates on vote counting in Maharashtra > ECI trends showed that the Mahayuti has crossed the 145-seat majority mark in Maharashtra as it is leading in over 210 seats. The alliance has won 10 seats so far. > Outgoing Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde expressed his gratitude to the voters and thanked the party workers for expected win. > "I thank all the workers of Mahayuti. PM Modi, Amit Shah bhai, Nadda ji - all supported us. They gave priority to Maharashtra. I am proud that I have been proven right about what I had said that we will win 200 seats. We (Mahayuti) fought like a team...," Chief Minister Shinde said. #WATCH | Mumbai | Mahayuti is set to form the govt in the state, Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde says, "I thank all the workers of Mahayuti. PM Modi, Amit Shah bhai, Nadda ji - all supported us. They gave priority to Maharashtra. I am proud that I have been proven right about what I… pic.twitter.com/0D7YrVnkOx — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2024 × > The opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) in Maharashtra, meanwhile, is trailing as it is leading in just a little over 50 assembly seats. The MVA comprises the Congress, the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) faction), and the NCP (Sharad Pawar faction). > Till now, the MVA has only won one seat. Jharkhand: > Latest trends from the ECI showed that the INDIA bloc is leading in Jharkhand. The INDIA bloc comprises the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM), the Congress, and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) along with smaller parties. > Trends show that the INDIA bloc is leading with 57 seats in Jharkhand, crossing the majority mark of 40 seats. #WATCH | #JharkhandAssemblyElection2024 | Ranchi: MoS Defence and BJP MP Sanjay Seth says, "...Jharkhand has 81 seats and Maharashtra has 288 seats. The scope is greater there. We have 81 seats, so the scope is less. But I can confidently say that as the sun goes up, gap will… pic.twitter.com/2lOMvHRFsr — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2024 × > The BJP-led NDA, meanwhile, is trailing as it has secured lead in over 21 seats. Click here to follow all updates on vote counting in Jharkhand > Reacting to the trends, Union Minister and BJP leader Sanjay Seth expressed confidence that the BJP will fight back and maintain its lead in Jharkhand. > "...Jharkhand has 81 seats and Maharashtra has 288 seats. The scope is greater there. We have 81 seats, so the scope is less. But I can confidently say that as the sun goes up, the gap will increase...I can confidently say that the wave of change that was seen in Jharkhand - corruption, vote jihad, shattering of the dreams of youth, atrocities of women in 5 years," Union Minister Seth told the news agency ANI. (With inputs from agencies)

Assembly polls in India: Mahayuti set for landslide win in Maharashtra; INDIA bloc cross majority in J'khand

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has accused the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government of conspiring to arrest his current deputy, BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis.

Shinde claimed that this was part of a broader scheme to undermine the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and possibly entice its MLAs to join the MVA alliance.

"This is what I feel sad about. They had planned everything. I had objected when they said they would arrest Devendra Fadnavis, which could have put the BJP on the back foot, and potentially their MLAs could have joined Maha Vikas Aghadi," Shinde said during an interview with ANI.

Despite his objections, Shinde noted that the MVA leadership was determined to move forward with their plan, which they justified as retaliation for alleged BJP misconduct.

“It was a case of urban land selling. They planned to implicate me as well in that case. I had some suspicions as I heard about it from some officers but when I became the Chief Minister, I got to know about their full planning,” Shinde said.

Shinde also criticised former chief minister Uddhav Thackeray for allowing undue interference from his family members in government matters.

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“His interference didn’t bother me, but then his family members started interfering, which wasn’t fair,” he said, adding that Thackeray’s behaviour had become increasingly erratic, leaving him puzzled and saddened.

Shinde said that Raj Thackeray had been unfairly sidelined despite his dedication to the party, which he implied was contrary to Balasaheb Thackeray’s wishes.

"BabaSaheb Thackeray ki icchha nhi thi ki Raj Thackeray jaye (Bala sahab Thackeray's never wanted that Raj Thackeray to leave them)," Shinde said.

When asked about Raj Thackeray’s absence from the coalition, CM Shinde responded, "he is with us."

"In the previous Lok Sabha, he came to our stage. If we are not fighting together then he is not against us either. There is still time. I mean, he (Raj Thackeray) deserved it at that time. They were the ones who were working," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has accused the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government of conspiring to arrest his current deputy, BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has accused the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government of conspiring to arrest his current deputy, BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis. Shinde claimed that this was part of a broader scheme to undermine the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and possibly entice its MLAs to join the MVA alliance. "This is what I feel sad about. They had planned everything. I had objected when they said they would arrest Devendra Fadnavis, which could have put the BJP on the back foot, and potentially their MLAs could have joined Maha Vikas Aghadi," Shinde said during an interview with ANI. Despite his objections, Shinde noted that the MVA leadership was determined to move forward with their plan, which they justified as retaliation for alleged BJP misconduct. “It was a case of urban land selling. They planned to implicate me as well in that case. I had some suspicions as I heard about it from some officers but when I became the Chief Minister, I got to know about their full planning,” Shinde said. Shinde also criticised former chief minister Uddhav Thackeray for allowing undue interference from his family members in government matters. Also read: Indian Coast Guard Chief Dir Gen Rakesh Pal passes away “His interference didn’t bother me, but then his family members started interfering, which wasn’t fair,” he said, adding that Thackeray’s behaviour had become increasingly erratic, leaving him puzzled and saddened. Shinde said that Raj Thackeray had been unfairly sidelined despite his dedication to the party, which he implied was contrary to Balasaheb Thackeray’s wishes. "BabaSaheb Thackeray ki icchha nhi thi ki Raj Thackeray jaye (Bala sahab Thackeray's never wanted that Raj Thackeray to leave them)," Shinde said. When asked about Raj Thackeray’s absence from the coalition, CM Shinde responded, "he is with us." "In the previous Lok Sabha, he came to our stage. If we are not fighting together then he is not against us either. There is still time. I mean, he (Raj Thackeray) deserved it at that time. They were the ones who were working," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Eknath Shinde reveals MVA government's arrest plot against Fadnavis to undermine BJP

Workers of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) threw coconuts and cow dung at the convoy of former Chief Minister and&nbsp;Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray in the Indian state of Maharashtra's Thane,&nbsp;on Saturday (August 10), according to a report by news agency ANI.

This comes a day after Raj Thackeray's car was attacked with betel nut by some Shiv&nbsp;Sena (UBT) supporters. This is alleged to be a retaliatory action. More than 20 people have been taken into custody, according to the police, and the matter is under investigation.

“Former Maharashtra and Shiv Sena (UBT) Chief Uddhav Thackeray’s convoy was attacked with Coconut and Cow dung by MNS workers. It is in response to yesterday's incident where Raj Thackeray’s car was attacked with Betel nut,” MNS said.

"The way Uddhav Thackeray's convoy was attacked in Thane. Uddhav Thackeray - who has Z category security - is the son of Balasaheb Thackeray and has been a CM of Maharashtra. This attack is a failure of the state government. The law and order situation has completely collapsed here and the home minister should resign," Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey said.

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The estranged cousin of Uddhav Thackeray, Raj Thackeray, was touring central Maharashtra on Friday. As his convoy was heading to a hotel,&nbsp;Shiv&nbsp;Sena (UBT) supporters attempted to block his way and threw betel nuts at him, according to officials. The betel nuts reportedly hit another car, but not Raj's vehicle.

The people responsible were arrested, and a case has been lodged against them. Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders have accused Raj of having accepted a 'supari' or contract to undermine the influence of the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction.

(With inputs from agencies)

Workers of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) threw coconuts and cow dung at the convoy of former Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray in the Indian state of Maharashtra's Thane, on Saturday (August 10), according to a report by news agency ANI.

Workers of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) threw coconuts and cow dung at the convoy of former Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray in the Indian state of Maharashtra's Thane, on Saturday (August 10), according to a report by news agency ANI. This comes a day after Raj Thackeray's car was attacked with betel nut by some Shiv Sena (UBT) supporters. This is alleged to be a retaliatory action. More than 20 people have been taken into custody, according to the police, and the matter is under investigation. “Former Maharashtra and Shiv Sena (UBT) Chief Uddhav Thackeray’s convoy was attacked with Coconut and Cow dung by MNS workers. It is in response to yesterday's incident where Raj Thackeray’s car was attacked with Betel nut,” MNS said. "The way Uddhav Thackeray's convoy was attacked in Thane. Uddhav Thackeray - who has Z category security - is the son of Balasaheb Thackeray and has been a CM of Maharashtra. This attack is a failure of the state government. The law and order situation has completely collapsed here and the home minister should resign," Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Anand Dubey said. Also read: Jaishankar in Maldives: India delivers drinking water project; Greater Malé Connectivity Project in focus The estranged cousin of Uddhav Thackeray, Raj Thackeray, was touring central Maharashtra on Friday. As his convoy was heading to a hotel, Shiv Sena (UBT) supporters attempted to block his way and threw betel nuts at him, according to officials. The betel nuts reportedly hit another car, but not Raj's vehicle. The people responsible were arrested, and a case has been lodged against them. Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders have accused Raj of having accepted a 'supari' or contract to undermine the influence of the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction. (With inputs from agencies)

India: MNS workers hurl coconuts, cow dung at Uddhav Thackeray's convoy; 20 arrested

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (UBT) top leader Uddhav Thackeray launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (Aug 3) and accused the ruling party of engaging in "power jihad" to destabilise political parties and retain power.&nbsp;

Thackeray's remarks came during a party meeting in Pune, part of the build-up to the crucial assembly polls expected in October this year.

Responding to a recent comment by Union Minister Amit Shah, who labelled him as the leader of the "Aurangzeb Fan Club," Thackeray retorted that Shah is the "political heir" of Ahmad Shah Abdali, the Afghan ruler who defeated the Marathas at the Battle of Panipat.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-leader-of-aurangzeb-fan-club-sharad-pawar-ringleader-of-corruption-amit-shah-tears-into-mva-742848">Uddhav leader of ‘Aurangzeb fan club’, Sharad Pawar ’ringleader’ of corruption: Amit Shah tears into MVA</a>

This exchange follows Shah’s July 21 speech in Pune, where he attacked Thackeray with the same accusation.

Thackeray further accused the BJP, a former ally, of orchestrating splits within political parties, specifically targeting the Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP).&nbsp;

He cited a letter from former Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Balasaheb Deoras to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Deoras is known to have told Gandhi to ensure no hatred toward Muslims or non-Hindus and to promote secularism as a core Hindu trait.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Why Maharashtra matters to India

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He claimed that the people of Maharashtra had sent a strong message to Shah during the recent Lok Sabha elections.

Thackeray asserted that the BJP equates any alignment with Muslims, even after explaining their version of Hindutva, as being part of the "Aurangzeb Fan Club". Thackeray also labelled the current Eknath Shinde government’s "Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin" scheme as an attempt to bribe voters with freebies.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the serving Maharashtra deputy chief minister and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis called Thackeray "disappointed and frustrated," and repeated Amit Shah's remarks that Thackeray is reportedly affiliated with the purported "Aurangzeb Fan Club."

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (UBT) top leader Uddhav Thackeray launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (Aug 3) and accused the ruling party of engaging in "power jihad" to destabilise political parties and retain power.

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister and Shiv Sena (UBT) top leader Uddhav Thackeray launched a scathing attack on the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday (Aug 3) and accused the ruling party of engaging in "power jihad" to destabilise political parties and retain power. Thackeray's remarks came during a party meeting in Pune, part of the build-up to the crucial assembly polls expected in October this year. Responding to a recent comment by Union Minister Amit Shah, who labelled him as the leader of the "Aurangzeb Fan Club," Thackeray retorted that Shah is the "political heir" of Ahmad Shah Abdali, the Afghan ruler who defeated the Marathas at the Battle of Panipat. Also read | Uddhav leader of ‘Aurangzeb fan club’, Sharad Pawar ’ringleader’ of corruption: Amit Shah tears into MVA This exchange follows Shah’s July 21 speech in Pune, where he attacked Thackeray with the same accusation. Thackeray further accused the BJP, a former ally, of orchestrating splits within political parties, specifically targeting the Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). He cited a letter from former Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Balasaheb Deoras to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Deoras is known to have told Gandhi to ensure no hatred toward Muslims or non-Hindus and to promote secularism as a core Hindu trait. Also watch | Why Maharashtra matters to India × He claimed that the people of Maharashtra had sent a strong message to Shah during the recent Lok Sabha elections. Thackeray asserted that the BJP equates any alignment with Muslims, even after explaining their version of Hindutva, as being part of the "Aurangzeb Fan Club". Thackeray also labelled the current Eknath Shinde government’s "Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin" scheme as an attempt to bribe voters with freebies. Meanwhile, the serving Maharashtra deputy chief minister and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis called Thackeray "disappointed and frustrated," and repeated Amit Shah's remarks that Thackeray is reportedly affiliated with the purported "Aurangzeb Fan Club." (With inputs from agencies)

'Aurangzeb Fan Club' Vs Ahmad Shah Abdali showdown between Thackeray, Shah takes over Maharashtra politics

India's Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a full-blown attack on the Maharashtra opposition coalition, Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and its prominent leaders. Shah called former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray part of the 'Aurangzeb fan club' and while referring to Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief, Sharad Pawar termed him as the 'ringleader' of corruption in the country.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Shah was speaking at the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) convention event in the western city of Pune where he criticised Thackeray for forging alliance with leaders that supported terrorists and divisive forces.&nbsp;

"Who are part of the Aurangzeb fan club? Those who serve biryani to Kasab (26/11 terrorist), those who seek clemency for Yakub Memon, those who give (controversial Islamic preacher) Zakir Naik a messenger of peace award and those who support the (banned Islamist outfit) PFI. Uddhav Thackeray should be ashamed of sitting with these people," Shah said.

As for Pawar, the BJP leader did not hold back any punches and called him the face of corruption whilst asserting that BJP-led coalition will win big in the assembly elections.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"They want to win elections by spreading misconceptions. They talk about corruption, but the biggest ringleader of corruption in Indian politics is Sharad Pawar and I have no confusion when I say this. Sharad Pawar institutionalised corruption in many governments of this country," the senior BJP leader said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/neet-ug-row-maharashtra-police-uncover-neet-ug-racket-in-bihar-735400">Watch |&nbsp;Neet-UG row: Maharashtra police uncover Neet-UG racket in Bihar</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>NCP hits back</h2>

After the scathing attack by Shah, NCP hit back at the BJP by claiming that the saffron party legitimised corruption.&nbsp;

"They accuse political leaders of corruption, and then once those who they accuse join BJP, they are all given a clean chit. This is the BJP's washing machine process of legitimising corruption," NCP&nbsp;national spokesperson Clyde Crasto stated.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/probationary-ias-officer-puja-khedkar-relieved-from-her-training-duties-741425">Also read |&nbsp;Probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar’s training in Maharashtra put on hold, recalled to Mussoorie academy</a>

Maharashtra goes to polls later this year to elect 288 members of the state's legislative assembly. While the Election Commission is yet to release the dates, it is expected that the ballots will be cast in or before October.&nbsp;

After Uddhav resigned as the CM in 2022, the state assembly is now led by CM Eknath Shinde with Devendra Fadnavis serving as the deputy CM. Meanwhile, Uddhav's Shiv Sena faction has forged an alliance with NCP and the Indian National Congress.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

India's Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a full-blown attack on the Maharashtra opposition coalition, Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and its prominent leaders. Shah called former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray part of the 'Aurangzeb fan club' and while referring to Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief, Sharad Pawar termed him as the 'ringleader' of corruption in the country.

India's Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a full-blown attack on the Maharashtra opposition coalition, Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and its prominent leaders. Shah called former Maharashtra chief minister Uddhav Thackeray part of the 'Aurangzeb fan club' and while referring to Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief, Sharad Pawar termed him as the 'ringleader' of corruption in the country. Shah was speaking at the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) convention event in the western city of Pune where he criticised Thackeray for forging alliance with leaders that supported terrorists and divisive forces. "Who are part of the Aurangzeb fan club? Those who serve biryani to Kasab (26/11 terrorist), those who seek clemency for Yakub Memon, those who give (controversial Islamic preacher) Zakir Naik a messenger of peace award and those who support the (banned Islamist outfit) PFI. Uddhav Thackeray should be ashamed of sitting with these people," Shah said. As for Pawar, the BJP leader did not hold back any punches and called him the face of corruption whilst asserting that BJP-led coalition will win big in the assembly elections. "They want to win elections by spreading misconceptions. They talk about corruption, but the biggest ringleader of corruption in Indian politics is Sharad Pawar and I have no confusion when I say this. Sharad Pawar institutionalised corruption in many governments of this country," the senior BJP leader said. Watch | Neet-UG row: Maharashtra police uncover Neet-UG racket in Bihar × NCP hits back After the scathing attack by Shah, NCP hit back at the BJP by claiming that the saffron party legitimised corruption. "They accuse political leaders of corruption, and then once those who they accuse join BJP, they are all given a clean chit. This is the BJP's washing machine process of legitimising corruption," NCP national spokesperson Clyde Crasto stated. Also read | Probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkar’s training in Maharashtra put on hold, recalled to Mussoorie academy Maharashtra goes to polls later this year to elect 288 members of the state's legislative assembly. While the Election Commission is yet to release the dates, it is expected that the ballots will be cast in or before October. After Uddhav resigned as the CM in 2022, the state assembly is now led by CM Eknath Shinde with Devendra Fadnavis serving as the deputy CM. Meanwhile, Uddhav's Shiv Sena faction has forged an alliance with NCP and the Indian National Congress. (With inputs from agencies)

Uddhav leader of ‘Aurangzeb fan club’, Sharad Pawar ’ringleader’ of corruption: Amit Shah tears into MVA

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday (June 12) asked if Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi would visit the conflict-stricken Manipur after RSS supremo Mohan Bhagwant raised concerns over the current situation in the northeastern state.

"Mohan Bhagwat has said that Manipur is burning. He has at least said this after a year. Will the prime minister and home minister not go there?," asked&nbsp;the former Maharashtra chief minister while addressing a press conference in Mumbai.

He then called for the Modi-led government to highlight the changes Jammu and Kashmir experienced on the ground after receiving a special status and if there was a need for the abrogation of Article 370, which had given it special status.

“Lives are being lost. Who is responsible for the terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir?” Thackeray asked.

“I am concerned about the future of the country and not about the future of the NDA government,” he added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rare-opposition-rss-bonhomie-emerges-amid-rumours-of-rift-in-sangh-bjp-ties-730899">Rare opposition-RSS bonhomie emerges amid rumours of rift in Sangh-BJP ties</a>

<h2>'Manipur...should be discussed on priority,' says RSS Chief</h2>

The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief on Monday (June 10) said that the situation in Manipur should be discussed on priority as it has been waiting for peace for over a year now.

While addressing the closing ceremony of the RSS worker's development class in Maharashtra's Nagpur, Bhagat said, "Manipur has been looking for peace for a year now. It should be discussed on priority.

"The state had been peaceful for the past 10 years. It felt like the old 'gun culture' had come to a demise. It is still burning in the fire of the sudden tension that rose there or that was made to rise there. Who will pay attention to that? It is the duty to prioritise it and take note of it."

His remarks came after PM Modi took charge for his third consecutive term.

<h2>Indian opposition welcomes RSS chief's remarks</h2>

Indian opposition welcomed his statement on Tuesday, with the Congress party saying they hoped the words of Bhagwat would “prevail” upon PM Modi.

“If not the one-third of the Prime Minister's conscience or the repeated demands of the people of Manipur, perhaps Mr Bhagwat can prevail upon the former RSS office-bearer to go to Manipur Remember what Mr Vajpayee had told Mr Modi 22 years back: fulfil your rajdharma,” Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said.

Another top Congress leader Kapil Sibal quipped that it was 'not in Modi's DNA' to listen to anyone but he should pay attention to Bhagwat's words.

"We raised concern about Manipur, Bhagwat ji has also said it now. You don't listen to us because you are not used to listening to us but listen to him. It is not in your DNA to listen to us. Manipur should be given priority. I had asked for the removal of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, but you could not remove the former wrestling body chief. What will you do about the Chief Minister?" Sibal said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday (June 12) asked if Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi would visit the conflict-stricken Manipur after RSS supremo Mohan Bhagwant raised concerns over the current situation in the northeastern state.

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday (June 12) asked if Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi would visit the conflict-stricken Manipur after RSS supremo Mohan Bhagwant raised concerns over the current situation in the northeastern state. "Mohan Bhagwat has said that Manipur is burning. He has at least said this after a year. Will the prime minister and home minister not go there?," asked the former Maharashtra chief minister while addressing a press conference in Mumbai. He then called for the Modi-led government to highlight the changes Jammu and Kashmir experienced on the ground after receiving a special status and if there was a need for the abrogation of Article 370, which had given it special status. “Lives are being lost. Who is responsible for the terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir?” Thackeray asked. “I am concerned about the future of the country and not about the future of the NDA government,” he added. Also read: Rare opposition-RSS bonhomie emerges amid rumours of rift in Sangh-BJP ties 'Manipur...should be discussed on priority,' says RSS Chief The Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief on Monday (June 10) said that the situation in Manipur should be discussed on priority as it has been waiting for peace for over a year now. While addressing the closing ceremony of the RSS worker's development class in Maharashtra's Nagpur, Bhagat said, "Manipur has been looking for peace for a year now. It should be discussed on priority. "The state had been peaceful for the past 10 years. It felt like the old 'gun culture' had come to a demise. It is still burning in the fire of the sudden tension that rose there or that was made to rise there. Who will pay attention to that? It is the duty to prioritise it and take note of it." His remarks came after PM Modi took charge for his third consecutive term. Indian opposition welcomes RSS chief's remarks Indian opposition welcomed his statement on Tuesday, with the Congress party saying they hoped the words of Bhagwat would “prevail” upon PM Modi. “If not the one-third of the Prime Minister's conscience or the repeated demands of the people of Manipur, perhaps Mr Bhagwat can prevail upon the former RSS office-bearer to go to Manipur Remember what Mr Vajpayee had told Mr Modi 22 years back: fulfil your rajdharma,” Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said. Another top Congress leader Kapil Sibal quipped that it was 'not in Modi's DNA' to listen to anyone but he should pay attention to Bhagwat's words. "We raised concern about Manipur, Bhagwat ji has also said it now. You don't listen to us because you are not used to listening to us but listen to him. It is not in your DNA to listen to us. Manipur should be given priority. I had asked for the removal of Chief Minister N Biren Singh, but you could not remove the former wrestling body chief. What will you do about the Chief Minister?" Sibal said. (With inputs from agencies)

Uddhav Thackeray questions if Modi would visit Manipur after RSS chief urges PM to act

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (May 10) took a swipe at Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar advising the NCP (SP) leader and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief to join hands with Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde after the results of Lok Sabha polls are released instead of "dying by merging" with the Congress.

"A big leader here who is active for 40-50 years is worried after polling in Baramati (Lok Sabha seat). He says that after June 4, smaller parties, in order to survive, will merge with the Congress," PM Modi said in an apparent reference to Pawar without taking his name.

"This means the nakli NCP and nakli Shiv Sena have made up their minds to merge with the Congress," PM Modi said, addressing an election rally in Nandurbar district of north Maharashtra.

"But instead of dying by merging with the Congress, come to Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde," the prime minister exclaimed.

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<h2>Pawar reacts</h2>

Pawar, reacting to PM Modi's comments said that he will not partner with any person, party or ideology that does not back parliamentary democracy.

"PM Modi's recent speeches have been conducive to creating rifts among communities, which is dangerous for the country. Wherever things are not in the nation's interest, neither I nor my colleagues will venture," he said.

PM Modi's remarks came after the NCP (SP) leader in a recent statement said that factions and regional parties should either come closer or merge with the Congress in the coming years.

"In the next couple of years, several regional parties will associate more closely with the Congress. Or they may look at the option of merging with the Congress if they believe that is the best for their party," NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar had told The Indian Express.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (May 10) took a swipe at Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar advising the NCP (SP) leader and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief to join hands with Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde after the results of Lok Sabha polls are released instead of "dying by merging" with the Congress.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday (May 10) took a swipe at Uddhav Thackeray and Sharad Pawar advising the NCP (SP) leader and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief to join hands with Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde after the results of Lok Sabha polls are released instead of "dying by merging" with the Congress. "A big leader here who is active for 40-50 years is worried after polling in Baramati (Lok Sabha seat). He says that after June 4, smaller parties, in order to survive, will merge with the Congress," PM Modi said in an apparent reference to Pawar without taking his name. "This means the nakli NCP and nakli Shiv Sena have made up their minds to merge with the Congress," PM Modi said, addressing an election rally in Nandurbar district of north Maharashtra. "But instead of dying by merging with the Congress, come to Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde," the prime minister exclaimed. Also read: WATCH: Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwal receives warm welcome as he walks out of jail Pawar reacts Pawar, reacting to PM Modi's comments said that he will not partner with any person, party or ideology that does not back parliamentary democracy. "PM Modi's recent speeches have been conducive to creating rifts among communities, which is dangerous for the country. Wherever things are not in the nation's interest, neither I nor my colleagues will venture," he said. PM Modi's remarks came after the NCP (SP) leader in a recent statement said that factions and regional parties should either come closer or merge with the Congress in the coming years. "In the next couple of years, several regional parties will associate more closely with the Congress. Or they may look at the option of merging with the Congress if they believe that is the best for their party," NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar had told The Indian Express. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Polls: PM Modi tells Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray to join BJP-led NDA, NCP (SP) leader responds

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday (May 3) lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stating that the party's Hindutva is ‘gaumutradhari’ (regressive), while his party's Hindutva is ‘reformist’.

Uddhav Thackeray's comment comes after union home minister Amit Shah attacked the Shiv Sena (UBT) over its Hindutva ideology.

“BJP's Hindutva is gaumutradhari. Our Hindutva is reformist…When the INDIA alliance comes to power, I will ensure the lost glory of Maharashtra is reclaimed,” Thackeray said during an election rally in Kankavali in Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg district.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rjds-misa-bharti-alleges-pm-modis-photo-from-covid-vaccine-certificate-removed-fearing-defamation-717822">RJD's Misa Bharti alleges PM Modi's photo from COVID vaccine certificate removed 'fearing defamation'</a>

Thackeray also accused the Centre of looting Maharashtra.&nbsp;

On Friday (May 3), Amit Shah slammed Thackeray, questioning if he can mention freedom fighter and Hindutva ideologue, V D Savarkar in his speeches.

“What are you as Shiv Sena chief if you are ashamed of taking Savarkar's name. You are running a fake Shiv Sena. The real Shiv Sena is with Eknath Shinde,” Shah said.

Shah also hit out at Uddhav Thackeray&nbsp;over Balashaheb Thackeray's legacy.

“You do not get Balasaheb's (Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray) legacy this way. You may be his son, but his legacy is with Narayan Rane, Eknath Shinde and Raj Thackeray. You have abandoned his legacy," he said.

It is worth mentioning, in 2019 Lok Sabha election, BJP won 23 seats, while its ally Shiv Sena won 18 seats.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-election-2024/dont-be-scared-dont-run-away-pm-modi-to-rahul-gandhi-over-rae-bareli-nomination-717632">'Don't be scared, don't run away': PM Modi teases Rahul Gandhi over Rae Bareli nomination</a>

The NCP got four seats, and the Congress got only one seat. Despite BJP getting&nbsp;higher number of seats, the Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP&nbsp;coalition of&nbsp;the ‘Maha Vikas Aghadi’ formed the government in Maharashtra.

But in 2022, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction broke away from the party and rebelled against Thackeray's leadership.&nbsp;

Shinde eventually formed the government with the support of the BJP. Subsequently, the Election Commission allotted the name ‘Shiv Sena’ and its bow and arrow symbol to the Eknath Shinde camp.

(With inputs from agencies)

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday (May 3) lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stating that the party's Hindutva is ‘gaumutradhari’ (regressive), while his party's Hindutva is ‘reformist’.

Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday (May 3) lashed out at the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), stating that the party's Hindutva is ‘gaumutradhari’ (regressive), while his party's Hindutva is ‘reformist’. Uddhav Thackeray's comment comes after union home minister Amit Shah attacked the Shiv Sena (UBT) over its Hindutva ideology. “BJP's Hindutva is gaumutradhari. Our Hindutva is reformist…When the INDIA alliance comes to power, I will ensure the lost glory of Maharashtra is reclaimed,” Thackeray said during an election rally in Kankavali in Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg district. Also read: RJD's Misa Bharti alleges PM Modi's photo from COVID vaccine certificate removed 'fearing defamation' Thackeray also accused the Centre of looting Maharashtra. On Friday (May 3), Amit Shah slammed Thackeray, questioning if he can mention freedom fighter and Hindutva ideologue, V D Savarkar in his speeches. “What are you as Shiv Sena chief if you are ashamed of taking Savarkar's name. You are running a fake Shiv Sena. The real Shiv Sena is with Eknath Shinde,” Shah said. Shah also hit out at Uddhav Thackeray over Balashaheb Thackeray's legacy. “You do not get Balasaheb's (Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray) legacy this way. You may be his son, but his legacy is with Narayan Rane, Eknath Shinde and Raj Thackeray. You have abandoned his legacy," he said. It is worth mentioning, in 2019 Lok Sabha election, BJP won 23 seats, while its ally Shiv Sena won 18 seats. Also read: 'Don't be scared, don't run away': PM Modi teases Rahul Gandhi over Rae Bareli nomination The NCP got four seats, and the Congress got only one seat. Despite BJP getting higher number of seats, the Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP coalition of the ‘Maha Vikas Aghadi’ formed the government in Maharashtra. But in 2022, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction broke away from the party and rebelled against Thackeray's leadership. Shinde eventually formed the government with the support of the BJP. Subsequently, the Election Commission allotted the name ‘Shiv Sena’ and its bow and arrow symbol to the Eknath Shinde camp. (With inputs from agencies)

BJP’s Hindutva regressive, our Hindutva reformist, says Uddhav Thackeray

The Congress party on Wednesday (April 3) expelled senior leader Sanjay Nirupam for six years for ‘indiscipline’ and ‘anti-party statements’.

Sanjay Nirupam, had&nbsp;lambasted Congress&nbsp;for conceding the prized Mumbai North West Lok Sabha seat to its former rival, now ally, the Shiv Sena led by Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray. Nirupam's allegations of corruption against the Shiv Sena's candidate, Amol Kirtikar, further escalated tensions within the party.

Nana Patole, the State Congress President, announced that the Maharashtra Congress has forwarded a proposal to the party leadership for disciplinary action against Nirupam. Patole highlighted Nirupam's contentious remarks and suggested that disciplinary proceedings were imminent.

Nirupam's political trajectory reveals a tumultuous relationship with the Congress party, marked by clashes and dissent. Despite his nearly two-decade-long association with the Congress, his criticisms and conflicts with party leaders have been recurrent.

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<h2>Friction with Shiv Sena (UBT)</h2>

Nirupam's discord with the Shiv Sena (UBT) over the Mumbai North West seat dates back to recent events. He raised concerns about the seat allocation within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, questioning the integrity of the Congress leadership's decisions.

Nirupam's criticisms extended to allegations of corruption against Amol Kirtikar, the Shiv Sena candidate for Mumbai North West, whom he called 'khichdi chor'. He drew attention to the Enforcement Directorate's investigation into the 'khichdi scam'&nbsp;involving Kirtikar, adding fuel to the political fire.

The Shiv Sena's nomination of candidates for parliamentary seats in Mumbai, particularly the Mumbai North West constituency, prompted Nirupam's accusations of a concerted effort to undermine the Congress party's electoral prospects.&nbsp;

Nirupam's tenure as Mumbai Congress chief was marked by internal dissent and challenges to his leadership style. Conflicts within the party, especially regarding candidate selection and organisational decisions, exacerbated tensions leading up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections.

Nirupam's transition from a prominent figure within the Shiv Sena to a dissenting voice within the Congress reflects the shifting sands of Indian politics.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Congress party on Wednesday (April 3) expelled senior leader Sanjay Nirupam for six years for ‘indiscipline’ and ‘anti-party statements’. Sanjay Nirupam, had lambasted Congress for conceding the prized Mumbai North West Lok Sabha seat to its former rival, now ally, the Shiv Sena led by Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray.

The Congress party on Wednesday (April 3) expelled senior leader Sanjay Nirupam for six years for ‘indiscipline’ and ‘anti-party statements’. Sanjay Nirupam, had lambasted Congress for conceding the prized Mumbai North West Lok Sabha seat to its former rival, now ally, the Shiv Sena led by Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray. Nirupam's allegations of corruption against the Shiv Sena's candidate, Amol Kirtikar, further escalated tensions within the party. Nana Patole, the State Congress President, announced that the Maharashtra Congress has forwarded a proposal to the party leadership for disciplinary action against Nirupam. Patole highlighted Nirupam's contentious remarks and suggested that disciplinary proceedings were imminent. Nirupam's political trajectory reveals a tumultuous relationship with the Congress party, marked by clashes and dissent. Despite his nearly two-decade-long association with the Congress, his criticisms and conflicts with party leaders have been recurrent. Also read | Tihar denies AAP's claims of Arvind Kejriwal losing 4.5 Kg, says weight remains same, Atishi hits back Friction with Shiv Sena (UBT) Nirupam's discord with the Shiv Sena (UBT) over the Mumbai North West seat dates back to recent events. He raised concerns about the seat allocation within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, questioning the integrity of the Congress leadership's decisions. Nirupam's criticisms extended to allegations of corruption against Amol Kirtikar, the Shiv Sena candidate for Mumbai North West, whom he called 'khichdi chor'. He drew attention to the Enforcement Directorate's investigation into the 'khichdi scam' involving Kirtikar, adding fuel to the political fire. The Shiv Sena's nomination of candidates for parliamentary seats in Mumbai, particularly the Mumbai North West constituency, prompted Nirupam's accusations of a concerted effort to undermine the Congress party's electoral prospects. Nirupam's tenure as Mumbai Congress chief was marked by internal dissent and challenges to his leadership style. Conflicts within the party, especially regarding candidate selection and organisational decisions, exacerbated tensions leading up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Nirupam's transition from a prominent figure within the Shiv Sena to a dissenting voice within the Congress reflects the shifting sands of Indian politics. (With inputs from agencies)

India: Congress expels Sanjay Nirupam for 6 years over ‘indiscipline’, ‘anti-party statements’

The Shiv Sena Uddhav Thackeray faction has announced its first list of candidates for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. Watch in for more details!

Lok Sabha Elections: Uddhav's Shiv Sena releases first list of candidates for Lok Sabha Polls

Meanwhile Congress allies are also not sparing any quarter Uddhav Thackeray has called BJP a termite damaging the country the leader has also urged people to prevent it from coming to power again for 'Sachche Din.' Watch to know more!

Lok Sabha Polls 2024: Uddhav Thackeray's 'Sachche Din' jibe at PM Modi

India Elections 2024: Uddhav Thackeray's 'Sachche Din' jibe at BJP

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has criticised the invitation extended by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray for him to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls for the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) as immature and ridiculous.

Nitin Gadkari, a member of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), currently serves as the Member of Parliament (MP) from Nagpur in Maharashtra, and has won the seat in the 2014 and 2019 general elections.

Thackeray's offer to Gadkari surfaced after the latter's name was notably absent from the BJP's initial list, which announced candidates for 195 seats.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-elections-2024-bjps-first-list-puts-focus-on-continuity-winnability-top-points-696077">BJP's first list puts focus on continuity, winnability | Top points</a>

Gadkari responded by dismissing the suggestion as immature, emphasising the BJP's established system for ticket distribution.

“The suggestion is immature and ridiculous. The BJP has a system of giving tickets to candidates,” Gadkari told news agency PTI.

The 66-year-old former BJP president expressed confidence in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the BJP, winning 400 seats and securing a third consecutive term under Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The Lok Sabha polls, anticipated to take place in April-May, hold significance for Maharashtra,&nbsp;which contributes 48 members to the 543-seat Lok Sabha, second only to Uttar Pradesh (80).

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-bjp-to-announce-another-99-candidates-699247" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-bjp-to-announce-another-99-candidates-699247&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiikvCoh--EAxULyzgGHXNkDgEQFnoECAIQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1DMk5hYZnvwhaeUgvdNaJy&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-elections-2024-bjp-to-announce-another-99-candidates-699247" target="_blank">India Elections 2024:&nbsp;BJP&nbsp;to announce another 99 candidates</a>

Uddhav Thackeray, addressing a meeting on March 3, had criticised the BJP for excluding Gadkari from their candidates' list. Thackeray suggested that Gadkari should display Maharashtra's resilience by resigning instead of yielding to Delhi, pledging support for his election as an MVA candidate.

The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) opposition alliance comprises Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress and the Sharad Pawar faction of&nbsp;Nationalist Congress Party, while the BJP governs Maharashtra in collaboration with the Shiv Sena and NCP.

Despite the political manoeuvring, both the NDA and MVA face challenges in finalising a seat-sharing arrangement ahead of the upcoming polls.

Also read:&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-says-pm-modi-lived-up-to-his-promise-by-notifying-caa-rules-699073" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-says-pm-modi-lived-up-to-his-promise-by-notifying-caa-rules-699073&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiikvCoh--EAxULyzgGHXNkDgEQFnoECAEQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw30D4azN6VurXZ-rtdNAzX1&amp;arm=e" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-says-pm-modi-lived-up-to-his-promise-by-notifying-caa-rules-699073" target="_blank">BJP&nbsp;hails PM for CAA implementation</a>

Earlier, BJP released its first list of candidates for the upcoming General Elections in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term. With 195 candidates from across 16 states announced on Saturday (Mar 2), the BJP has attempted to strike a balance between the old guard and new faces. The party led by JP Nadda has also attempted to balance the social representation on caste lines.

The first list included 28 women and 47 candidates below 50 years of age.

(With inputs from agencies)

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has criticised the invitation extended by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray for him to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls for the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) as immature and ridiculous.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has criticised the invitation extended by Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray for him to contest the upcoming Lok Sabha polls for the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) as immature and ridiculous. Nitin Gadkari, a member of the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), currently serves as the Member of Parliament (MP) from Nagpur in Maharashtra, and has won the seat in the 2014 and 2019 general elections. Thackeray's offer to Gadkari surfaced after the latter's name was notably absent from the BJP's initial list, which announced candidates for 195 seats. Also read: BJP's first list puts focus on continuity, winnability | Top points Gadkari responded by dismissing the suggestion as immature, emphasising the BJP's established system for ticket distribution. “The suggestion is immature and ridiculous. The BJP has a system of giving tickets to candidates,” Gadkari told news agency PTI. The 66-year-old former BJP president expressed confidence in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), led by the BJP, winning 400 seats and securing a third consecutive term under Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Lok Sabha polls, anticipated to take place in April-May, hold significance for Maharashtra, which contributes 48 members to the 543-seat Lok Sabha, second only to Uttar Pradesh (80). Also read: India Elections 2024: BJP to announce another 99 candidates Uddhav Thackeray, addressing a meeting on March 3, had criticised the BJP for excluding Gadkari from their candidates' list. Thackeray suggested that Gadkari should display Maharashtra's resilience by resigning instead of yielding to Delhi, pledging support for his election as an MVA candidate. The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) opposition alliance comprises Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress and the Sharad Pawar faction of Nationalist Congress Party, while the BJP governs Maharashtra in collaboration with the Shiv Sena and NCP. Despite the political manoeuvring, both the NDA and MVA face challenges in finalising a seat-sharing arrangement ahead of the upcoming polls. Also read: BJP hails PM for CAA implementation Earlier, BJP released its first list of candidates for the upcoming General Elections in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term. With 195 candidates from across 16 states announced on Saturday (Mar 2), the BJP has attempted to strike a balance between the old guard and new faces. The party led by JP Nadda has also attempted to balance the social representation on caste lines. The first list included 28 women and 47 candidates below 50 years of age. (With inputs from agencies)

Lok Sabha Election 2024: Nitin Gadkari rejects Uddhav’s invitation to contest Lok Sabha polls for MVA

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