Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Uddhav Thackeray shared the stage at a joint rally in Worli, Mumbai after 20 years. The rally was organized by the Government of Maharashtra to celebrate the victory of withdrawing the policy of making Hindi compulsory in primary schools as a third language. On this occasion, Raj Thackeray lashed out at Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and said, “I and Uddhav have come together after 20 years. Devendra Fadnavis did not do Balasaheb Thackeray.
Marathi Asmita victory
At this ‘Awaaz Marathacha’ rally held at NSCI Dome in Worli, Raj Thackeray termed the withdrawal of three-language policy as a victory of Marathi Asmita. He clarified that he has no enmity against Hindi or any other language, but the attempt to impose Hindi in Maharashtra will not be tolerated. Uddhav Thackeray also described this unity as permanent and said that it is a symbol of Marathi Manus’s strength.
Fadnavis warns on violence
A few days before this rally, an incident of attacking a shopkeeper by MNS workers not to speak Marathi in Meera Road created a controversy. Fadnavis condemned this, saying, “Marathi is a matter of pride, but violence, intimidation, or attack in its name is not acceptable.” He assured strict action against the culprits. Seven MNS workers were detained, but were released due to a bailable offense.
Opposite political equations
This reunion is considered important not only for Marathi identity, but also for the upcoming local body elections, especially the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. This unity of Raj and Uddhav has given up speculation of new equations in the politics of Maharashtra. However, the Congress distanced the rally, as they are concerned about their non-Marathi vote bank.
Historical reunion
This was the first public platform between Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray, who broke away from Shiv Sena in 2006. Uddhav hugged Raj at the rally, which was enthusiastically welcomed by the audience. Raj said, “Maharashtra is greater than any politics or quarrel.” This unity was a demonstration of the strength of Marathi Manus, which forced the government to withdraw the policy.
