Maharashtra: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Election: Is the Alliance Between Raj and Uddhav Thackeray Final? Will MNS and Shiv Sena UBT Contest Together?
Maharashtra: Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation Election: Speculation is rife regarding a likely alliance between former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray (UBT) and Raj Thackeray's Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS). This speculation intensified following the state government's decision to implement a three-language policy (trisutri formula) in primary schools.
Alliance between UBT and MNS is nearing finalization
Recent developments suggest that after a meeting between Raj and Uddhav at Shivtirth on Wednesday, the alliance between UBT and MNS is nearing finalization. The two leaders are expected to discuss seat-sharing arrangements based on their respective areas of influence. This has prompted renewed speculation about the future of the opposition alliance, Mahavikas Aghadi (MVA).
Raj and Uddhav engaged in a closed-door discussion
The series of meetings between Raj and Uddhav, which have been taking place in the context of the upcoming elections for the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and other local bodies in Maharashtra, continue to gain momentum. Uddhav Thackeray's unexpected visit to Raj's residence, Shivtirth, on Wednesday morning surprised many. Reports indicate that the two cousins engaged in a closed-door discussion lasting about two and a half hours.
Uddhav extended an invitation to Raj
During the meeting, UBT MP Sanjay Raut, MLA Anil Parab, and MNS leader Bala Nandgaonkar were also present. Sources suggest that they discussed preparations for the municipal elections. To further solidify the alliance, Uddhav extended an invitation to Raj for the upcoming Dussehra conference of UBT, although it is not clear whether Raj will attend.
Raj calls meeting of party leaders
In response, Raj Thackeray has convened a meeting with prominent leaders of his party at Shivtirth on Thursday. The purpose of this meeting is to inform his trusted colleagues about the discussions with Uddhav and the invitation to the Dussehra conference, as well as to strategize for the future. It is anticipated that Raj may unveil his future plans following this meeting.