Intensifying the political tension before the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray slammed Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, likening his actions to the historical betrayal of Suryaji Pisal. Thackeray emphasized the significance of the BMC battle as a crucial moment for Mumbai’s future, drawing parallels to Maratha history.
Thackeray urged party candidates to uphold the fight with vigor, cautioning against betrayal and emphasizing the need to preserve Marathi pride. He indirectly criticized the BJP leadership, emphasizing the importance of keeping Mumbai under Marathi control and not succumbing to external influences.
A strategic alliance was highlighted as Aaditya Thackeray and Amit Thackeray, from Shiv Sena and MNS respectively, addressed candidates together. They emphasized the unity of Shiv Sena, MNS, and NCP against alleged opposition tactics of using power and money to influence voters. The Thackeray cousins and Uddhav Thackeray’s forceful rhetoric indicate a shift in campaign focus towards Marathi identity and loyalty themes.
