KKN Gurugram Desk | In the political corridors of Maharashtra, discussions are swirling about the possibility of Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray coming together in the near future. Amidst these speculations, Maharashtra’s Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has also weighed in, offering his thoughts on the matter. His remarks have been seen as positive, as he welcomed the idea of the two leaders reconciling, a move he believes could benefit the state’s political landscape.

Devendra Fadnavis Welcomes Raj and Uddhav’s Potential Alliance

The talks about a potential alliance between Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray have dominated news cycles in Maharashtra recently. As speculation intensified, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was asked for his opinion on the matter. Fadnavis responded by saying that he would welcome the alliance if it materializes. He remarked, “If they come together, we are happy because it’s always good when estranged individuals come together, and when a dispute is resolved. What’s there to feel bad about? But as for what has been offered and what has been responded to, we don’t have a say in that.”

Fadnavis, known for his diplomatic style, made it clear that the possibility of Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray setting aside their differences would be a positive step for the state’s political environment. His comments suggest that, from the perspective of the BJP, any political reconciliation between two major regional players in Maharashtra would be seen in a favorable light.

Devendra Fadnavis on BMC Elections: BJP’s Victory Is Certain

Moving on to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, which are expected to take place soon, Devendra Fadnavis was confident about the BJP’s performance. He claimed that no matter the outcome, the BJP-led Mahayuti (Grand Alliance) would emerge victorious. He confidently asserted, “Whether it’s the BMC elections or local body elections, under BJP’s leadership, our Mahayuti will undoubtedly win. The victory of Mahayuti is certain.”

Fadnavis’ optimism in the face of speculation surrounding potential alliances between Shiv Sena and MNS reflects the BJP’s steadfast confidence in its political machinery and alliances. His statement indicates that the BJP believes it can maintain its dominant position in Maharashtra, particularly in urban areas like Mumbai.

Opposition Responds to Raj and Uddhav’s Possible Political Reunion

Meanwhile, the opposition parties are voicing their own concerns about the possibility of a Raj Thackeray-Uddhav Thackeray alliance. Ambadas Danve, the leader of the opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council and a member of Shiv Sena (UBT), was asked about the ongoing speculation. Danve expressed skepticism about the feasibility of the alliance, noting that both Thackeray brothers have separate political ideologies.

He said, “They are brothers, but their politics are different. If Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray want to come together, they will have to sit down and talk to each other. Such discussions should happen privately and not on TV.”

Danve’s remarks emphasize the deep-rooted ideological divide between Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena and Raj Thackeray’s MNS, despite the family ties between the two leaders. The differences in their political strategies, especially in terms of their approach towards governance and Maharashtra’s political future, make the prospect of a successful alliance seem challenging.

Raj Thackeray’s Offer to Join Forces with Uddhav Thackeray

Adding fuel to the speculation, Raj Thackeray, the leader of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), made a significant statement on April 19, 2025, suggesting that he is open to joining forces with Uddhav Thackeray if it benefits Maharashtra. Raj Thackeray was quoted as saying, “If coming together for the greater good of Maharashtra is necessary, I am ready to work with Uddhav Thackeray.” This offer has stirred political debates, as Raj’s remarks indicate a willingness to set aside past differences in favor of broader political goals.

However, Uddhav Thackeray’s camp has reportedly set conditions for any potential alliance with Raj. The nature of these conditions has not been made public yet, but it’s clear that the ideological rift between the two factions will need to be addressed before any formal partnership can take shape.

The Political Context of the Thackeray Brothers’ Rift

The potential reunion of Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray is a topic of great interest in Maharashtra’s political circles, but it also carries significant historical baggage. Raj Thackeray, once a prominent member of the Shiv Sena, broke away to form MNS in 2006, citing differences over the direction of the party and his desire to focus on the rights of Marathi-speaking people. Over the years, the political paths of Raj and Uddhav have diverged significantly, with Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena aligning with national parties like the Congress and NCP while Raj Thackeray’s MNS has maintained a more independent stance, often taking a hard line on issues related to Marathi pride.

Their relationship has been complicated by personal and political disagreements, making the idea of an alliance seem far-fetched to many observers. However, given the changing dynamics of Maharashtra politics, it is possible that both leaders may find common ground, especially if they believe it will enhance their political influence in the state.

BJP’s Strategic Positioning in Maharashtra Politics

While the speculation about Raj and Uddhav’s potential alliance continues to dominate political discussions, Devendra Fadnavis and the BJP appear confident in their strategy. The BJP’s stronghold in urban Maharashtra, especially in Mumbai, gives them a significant advantage heading into the BMC elections. Fadnavis’ statement that the Mahayuti will win the upcoming elections reflects the BJP’s long-standing efforts to consolidate its position as the dominant force in Maharashtra politics.

The BJP’s strategy in Maharashtra has been to form alliances with regional parties like the Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS, while also capitalizing on its national reach to appeal to voters. The potential political shifts, such as the possible alliance between Raj and Uddhav, could alter the landscape, but the BJP seems prepared to navigate these changes with a focus on maintaining its electoral dominance.

What’s at Stake in the BMC Elections?

The BMC elections are critical for all political parties in Maharashtra, especially for the BJP, which has long considered Mumbai a key battleground. The BMC not only controls the city’s infrastructure but also wields significant influence over municipal governance and urban development projects. Winning the BMC elections would provide the BJP with a stronghold in Mumbai, further solidifying its position as a political powerhouse in Maharashtra.

For the opposition, particularly the Shiv Sena factions and MNS, winning the BMC elections would represent a major victory and could act as a launchpad for regaining political influence in the state. As the BMC elections approach, political parties are likely to step up their efforts to secure alliances, galvanize voters, and leverage local issues to win the public’s support.

The speculation surrounding the potential reunion of Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray has raised several questions about the future of Maharashtra’s political environment. While Devendra Fadnavis has expressed a positive outlook on their possible alliance, the opposition remains skeptical, citing the deep ideological divides between the two leaders.

Regardless of whether Raj and Uddhav come together or not, the BJP appears to be in a strong position heading into the BMC elections. Their strategic alliances, coupled with Fadnavis’s leadership, have made the BJP a dominant force in the state’s political landscape.