The alliance dynamics in Maharashtra's Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition are under strain as tensions escalate between the Samajwadi Party (SP) and Shiv Sena (UBT). SP leader Abu Azmi’s recent threat to withdraw from the alliance has prompted strong reactions, particularly from Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aditya Thackeray, who accused the SP of sometimes acting as the “BJP’s B team” in the state.
Aditya Thackeray Defends Shiv Sena's Hindutva
Aditya Thackeray, son of Uddhav Thackeray and an MLA of Shiv Sena (UBT), sought to clarify his stance, emphasizing that his remarks were not directed at SP President Akhilesh Yadav. “This is about the Samajwadi Party in Mumbai, which sometimes behaves like the BJP’s B team. Akhilesh Yadav is fighting his own battle, but some of his leaders here assist the BJP, as seen in recent elections,” he said.
Thackeray reaffirmed Shiv Sena’s Hindutva ideology, stating, “Our Hindutva is clear and focused on the welfare of people. We never denied being Hindutvawadis. Our Hindutva represents the idea of having ‘Ram in the heart and work in the hands,’ aiming for practical and inclusive governance.”
Abu Azmi Slams Babri Demolition Remarks
SP leader Abu Azmi expressed displeasure over a controversial social media post by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Milind Narvekar on December 6, marking the anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition. The post featured a statement by late Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray: “I am proud of those who did this.” The Shiv Sena (UBT) also published advertisements lauding the demolition, further fueling tensions.
Azmi called this stance contradictory to the MVA alliance’s secular principles. “If someone within the alliance glorifies such acts, how are they different from the BJP? Congress needs to decide whether it can coexist with partners who make such statements,” he asserted.
Samajwadi Party’s Concerns
SP MLA Rais Sheikh voiced disappointment with Aditya Thackeray’s comments, dismissing them as an attempt to deflect. “We raised two straightforward questions: Is Shiv Sena (UBT) leaning toward hardline Hindutva? Aditya Thackeray made baseless allegations. We reject his statement and will discuss this issue with senior leaders.”
Alliance at a Crossroads
The deepening discord between the Samajwadi Party and Shiv Sena (UBT) highlights ideological tensions within the MVA coalition. While Shiv Sena (UBT) emphasizes a broader interpretation of Hindutva, SP’s stance underscores its secular commitments, bringing into question the long-term viability of their partnership. As both parties trade barbs, the Congress, a key ally in the MVA, faces pressure to mediate and maintain coalition unity amidst these ideological divergences.
PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY
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