Thackeray thaw

ONE of Maharashtra’s premier political dynasties, now a pale shadow of its former self, is likely to get a new lease of life — provided that estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray walk the talk on burying the hatchet. Former CM Uddhav, who heads a Shiv Sena faction, and Raj, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief, have expressed their intent to reunite in the interests of the “Marathi manoos” (native Marathi speakers). Deep down, it’s the spectre of seeing their parties being reduced to political nonentities that is drawing them towards each other. A possible reconciliation could have a bearing on the high-stakes Mumbai civic body polls, which are expected to be held this year.

Raj had quit the Shiv Sena two decades ago after a fallout with his uncle and party founder Bal Thackeray, who could not resist the urge to elevate son Uddhav up the party ladder. His fledgling MNS made a good start by winning 13 seats in the 2009 Assembly elections; however, the party has been pushed to the sidelines over the years, and it drew a blank in last year’s polls. Still, Raj continues to be an influential leader, especially because of his strident ‘Marathi first’ agenda. No wonder Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde paid him a visit at his residence last week. Shinde, who broke ranks with Uddhav in 2022 and now heads the ‘official’ Shiv Sena, is desperate to ensure his party’s success in the civic polls. He knows that an under-par show will further weaken his position vis-a-vis the dominant BJP. Known for striking the best bargain for himself, Raj will probably keep his options open for as long as he can.

Much will depend on Uddhav’s efforts to win over his cousin. He has already sounded a note of caution that nothing should be done to help the ‘thieves’, an allusion to the ruling Mahayuti that includes the BJP, Shinde’s Sena and Ajit Pawar’s NCP. Amid the tug-of-war over Balasaheb’s legacy, the Thackeray duo would be well advised to close ranks.

Editorials