After nearly two decades of political distance, Mumbai politics has entered a new phase. Cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray have formally come together for the upcoming civic body elections in Maharashtra. The alliance marks a major realignment ahead of the crucial Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls, scheduled for January 15.
Their unity brings Marathi pride back to the centre of local politics and sets the stage for a fierce contest across urban Maharashtra.
Shiv Sena–MNS Alliance Officially Announced in Mumbai
The much-awaited announcement came at a public event in Mumbai on Wednesday. Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena faction and Raj Thackeray’s Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) will contest the civic polls together.
Addressing supporters, Raj Thackeray said in Marathi, “Maharashtra was waiting for this day for a long time. I declare today that Shiv Sena and MNS are united.”
He added that Maharashtra’s interests would always come first.
Marathi Identity Takes Centre Stage
The alliance places strong emphasis on Marathi identity. Raj Thackeray declared that Mumbai’s mayor would be Marathi and would come from either his party or Uddhav Thackeray’s faction.
Uddhav Thackeray echoed a firm message during the event. He said, “Marathi people normally don’t trouble others, but if someone crosses their path, they are not spared.”
The remarks underline the alliance’s intent to mobilise local sentiment ahead of the elections.
Seat-Sharing Talks Still Unresolved
Despite the public show of unity, negotiations continue behind the scenes. Seat distribution remains undecided for elections to 29 municipal corporations in Maharashtra.
Discussions have reportedly hit hurdles in Mumbai seats such as Dadar, Mahim, Borivali, Vikhroli, Bhandup, and Sewri. Uddhav Thackeray also confirmed that talks are ongoing with NCP (SP), hinting at a broader opposition arrangement.
Why the BMC Election Matters
The BMC election is the biggest civic battle in the state. Control of Mumbai’s civic body carries major political and financial influence. Apart from Mumbai, key contests will also take place in Thane, Kalyan-Dombivli, and Nashik.
The Sena–MNS alliance could significantly alter the vote equations in these urban centres.
From Rivals to Allies After 20 Years
Raj and Uddhav Thackeray last shared a stage in July this year. That rally marked the end of a rivalry that began in 2006, when Raj quit the undivided Shiv Sena and formed the MNS.
Their reunion followed joint opposition to what they called “Hindi imposition” in Maharashtra. The July event celebrated the state government’s decision to withdraw Hindi as a third language from Class 1.
Raj Thackeray is the nephew of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray, making this alliance both political and deeply symbolic.