Raut Declares Strong Alliance Ahead of Mumbai Civic Elections

In a bold statement on March 4, 2024, Sanjay Raut, a senior leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), affirmed the strength of the alliance between his party and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) as the two prepare for the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. Raut emphasized that the next mayor of Mumbai will embody true Marathi values and will not submit to external pressures from Delhi.

Raut’s remarks signal a commitment to the party’s core agenda, which focuses on representing the interests of local communities. He indicated that the Shiv Sena (UBT) plans to leverage its “sons of the soil” narrative in the electoral campaign. Raut stated, “This alliance will be made from ‘dil’ (heart) and ‘dimag’ (mind). This is not a political alliance. This is an alliance made with tan-mann-dhan,” highlighting the emotional and intellectual underpinnings of this collaboration.

Strengthening Ties Between Thackeray Cousins

Recent developments have seen Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray engage in significant discussions aimed at solidifying their partnership ahead of the elections. The cousins met during a family gathering, where they reportedly discussed political strategies and the potential for collaboration. Raut noted that the relationship between the two leaders has strengthened, stating, “Whatever anyone says, the dialogue and relationship between Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray have become very strong. Even if someone tries their hardest to break it, the talks have progressed much further. There is no turning back now.”

The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader also addressed speculation regarding the MNS’s potential inclusion in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), which consists of the Shiv Sena (UBT), the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and the Indian National Congress. Raut mentioned that the MNS is an independent entity and that discussions specifically pertain to the forthcoming municipal elections. He added that while ties with the MVA remain amicable, the decision on any potential alliance would ultimately rest with Raj Thackeray.

Future Strategies and Election Dynamics

The BMC elections are poised to be a significant political battleground in Mumbai. With 27 civic bodies across the state, the Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS will need to engage in detailed negotiations regarding candidate selection and electoral strategies. Raut expressed the necessity of thorough discussions on each seat, indicating a strategic approach to maximize their electoral impact.

While Raut remains optimistic about the alliance, an MNS representative has downplayed the discussions between the Thackeray cousins. They clarified that Raj Thackeray’s visit to Matoshree, Uddhav’s residence, was primarily for a family event rather than political negotiations.

As the political landscape in Maharashtra continues to evolve, both parties are preparing to galvanize their support bases and present a united front in the upcoming BMC elections. With the elections just around the corner, the developments between the Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS will be closely monitored by political analysts and voters alike.