Uddhav and Raj Thackeray Unite in Warning: Mumbai’s Identity and Marathi Pride Face Existential Threat

Mumbai: In a rare joint appearance, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray sharply criticized the Mahayuti government, asserting that actions amounting to a “death warrant” are being issued against Mumbai and Marathi pride. They described the city as declining, with stalled projects and widespread corruption.

The cousins spoke during a combined interview conducted by Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut and filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar for Saamana, the mouthpiece of Shiv Sena (UBT).

Raj Thackeray emphasized the critical juncture for Maharashtra, calling the current election a “now or never” moment, particularly for Mumbai, Thane, and the broader Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). He stressed the need for unity, warning that failure to support each other could lead to Maharashtra never forgiving them.

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Uddhav Thackeray highlighted concerns over unopposed elections in local bodies, where candidates are withdrawing nominations. He suggested that opposition leaders might be coerced or relocated, drawing parallels to past political incidents in Guwahati and even referencing international events involving Venezuela and Donald Trump. He advocated restarting the election process in such cases and questioned the absence of opposition candidates.

Echoing Uddhav, Raj expressed dismay at the state of politics in Maharashtra and the country, wondering aloud about divine oversight amid such developments. He called for restrictions on unopposed elections and urged the public to voice anger through voting in key municipal corporations, including Mumbai, Thane, Pune, Nashik, Mira-Bhayander, and Kalyan-Dombivli. Raj clarified that the aim is not personal power but accountability, insisting voters must reject those responsible if dissatisfied.

Addressing recent drug seizures and factory raids in the state, both leaders targeted Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Raj remarked that while the country needs a Prime Minister, the BJP has one focused solely on party interests; similarly, Maharashtra lacks a true Chief Minister, with the BJP prioritizing power.