By Khabar Rojana 
In a rare show of unity, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray shared the stage at a joint rally ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections). The rally, aimed at mobilising Marathi voters, marked a significant political moment after years of political rivalry between the two cousins.
Both leaders delivered strong messages on Marathi identity, governance, and political accountability, calling the upcoming civic polls a decisive battle for the future of Mumbai. Here are the four key takeaways from their joint address:
Raj Thackeray warned that the upcoming BMC election could be the final opportunity for Marathi citizens to protect their political and cultural influence in Mumbai. He alleged that unchecked migration, vote-bank politics, and neglect of local communities have diluted Marathi representation in the city.
“If Marathi people do not wake up now, this could be the last election where their voice truly matters,” Raj said, urging voters to unite beyond party lines.
Both Raj and Uddhav stressed the need for unity among Marathi-speaking citizens, putting aside past political rivalries for a larger cause.
Uddhav Thackeray said the reunion was not about power-sharing but about safeguarding Marathi identity, language, employment rights, and local governance in Mumbai.
“Our differences are small compared to the future of Maharashtra and Mumbai,” he said.
The Thackeray cousins strongly criticised the BJP-led central government, accusing it of weakening regional voices and misusing central agencies to pressure Opposition leaders.
They alleged that municipal autonomy was being compromised and warned against excessive central control over Mumbai’s civic administration.
Raj Thackeray said Mumbai must be governed by those who understand its people and culture, not by “remote control politics from Delhi.”
Beyond identity politics, both leaders highlighted pressing civic concerns such as:
- Poor infrastructure and road conditions
- Delays in redevelopment projects
- Water shortages and sanitation
- Rising cost of living in Mumbai
Uddhav emphasized that the BMC election was not just political but about improving the quality of daily life for Mumbai residents.
“This election is about clean roads, safe homes, reliable water, and dignity for every citizen,” he said.
Shalu Shalu