The current buzz in Maharashtra politics centres on the Thackeray cousins uniting for a rally against the mandatory introduction of Hindi from the first standard. Although the state government has clarified that Hindi is not compulsory, both Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray believe this is a plot to force students to learn Hindi.
Reacting to this reunion, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and MLA Aaditya Thackeray spoke exclusively to News 18, expressing his views. 鈥淭he main reason for this reunion is opposition to the government鈥檚 compulsion of Hindi,鈥 he said. 鈥淭he BJP aims to implement a divide-and-rule policy in Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai, and we stand against that.鈥
He added, 鈥淲e seek the unity of Maharashtra and Maharashtrians, which is why we are coming together. Our primary identity is being Maharashtrian.鈥
In recent weeks, party workers from both MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT) have been putting up banners across Maharashtra, including cities like Mumbai, Nashik, and Aurangabad, promoting the unity of the Thackeray cousins. Recently, in Mumbai, MNS and Shiv Sena UBT held a joint press conference against a private airline for neglecting their concerns.
While speaking with News 18, Aaditya Thackeray emphasised, 鈥淔or us, the sentiment of Maharashtra is paramount. I am not focusing on anything else right now. There is a broader sentiment that all Marathi-speaking people must unite as the situation demands it. The unity of Maharashtra is crucial for us.鈥
Currently, the Thackeray cousins are coming together to oppose the compulsory inclusion of Hindi in schools. However, there is no official confirmation on whether they will join forces for the upcoming local body elections, including the BMC polls.
According to sources, back-channel talks are in progress, but no official meetings have taken place. When asked about a potential political alliance between Shiv Sena UBT and MNS, Aaditya Thackeray responded, 鈥淭he top leadership of both parties will make that decision.鈥