Speedy Summary
- Shiv Sena (UBT) MP sanjay Raut emphasized the necessity for Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray to form a political alliance, stating it would provide a “new direction” for Maharashtra.
- in his weekly column Rok Thok in Saamana, Raut alleged the BJP aims to “loot Mumbai,” potentially make it a union territory, push for a separate Vidarbha state, and undermine Maharashtra’s integrity.
- He further accused Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis of supporting Vidarbha statehood during past protests in Nagpur.
- Raut warned that without unity between the Thackeray cousins, Mumbai might face major corporate control from entities like Adani and lodha and lose its identity within Maharashtra.
- speculation about reconciliation between Raj and Uddhav has increased after joint public appearances on July 5 opposing Hindi language imposition policies by the BJP-led government. However,no formal alliance has been announced yet.
- The unity of Raj and Uddhav reportedly boosted confidence among Marathi people (“Marathi manoos”). Though, issues concerning them remain unresolved according to Raut’s claims.
Indian Opinion Analysis
The potential alliance between Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray holds significant implications for Maharashtra politics. Such an alignment could consolidate Marathi regional pride (“asmita”) while creating stronger opposition against the BJP’s policy directions related to Mumbai’s governance. Additionally, uniting Shiv Sena (UBT) with MNS may enhance prospects in civic body elections later this year in Mumbai and thane.
Sanjay Raut’s criticism of BJP policies could heighten political polarization ahead of elections. Allegations such as turning Mumbai into a union territory or promoting Vidarbha statehood accentuate debates surrounding state identity versus national agendas. Nonetheless, whether these speculations resonate broadly with voters will depend on tangible alliances forming between prominent leaders like Uddhav and Raj.
unity among the two influential factions may redefine power dynamics at both local elections level as well as broader legislative scales within Maharashtra-a crucial factor worth monitoring closely.
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