Maharashtra Deputy CM Shinde Snubs Thackeray Cousins’ Reunion Rumors

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde reacted sharply when questioned about rumors of a reconciliation between Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray. During a visit to his native Dare village in Satara district on Saturday,reporter’s query about the cousins’ potential rapprochement visibly irritated Shinde. The Shiv Sena leader, typically composed in public, dismissed the question, urging the media to focus on the government’s work instead.

Speculation about a reunion gained traction after Raj Thackeray, in a podcast with filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar released on Saturday, said he had no issues working with Uddhav in the undivided Shiv Sena and questioned Uddhav’s willingness to collaborate. Both cousins hinted at overlooking minor disputes, with Raj emphasizing unity for the “Marathi manoos” and Uddhav stating he could set aside petty conflicts, provided those harming Maharashtra’s interests seemingly a veiled reference to Shinde’s faction and the BJP were excluded. Uddhav’s remarks followed Raj’s recent hosting of Shinde, which had fueled the rumors.

The Thackeray cousins’ rift dates to 2006, when Raj, nephew of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray, left the party citing differences with Uddhav and launched the MNS. While the MNS won 13 seats in the 2009 assembly elections, it failed to secure any in 2024. Uddhav’s Shiv Sena (UBT), part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi, won only 20 of 95 contested seats in the 2024 polls, following Shinde’s 2022 rebellion that split the Shiv Sena and toppled Uddhav’s government, after which Shinde formed a new government with BJP support.