Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena chief Eknath Shinde intensified his attack on Uddhav Thackeray on the occasion of the party’s 60th foundation day, declaring that the recent split within Shiv Sena (UBT) is only the beginning of bigger political developments.
Addressing party workers at the NSE Grounds in Mumbai on Friday, Shinde challenged the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) over threats allegedly directed at six rebel Lok Sabha MPs who are reportedly seeking to join the Shinde-led faction.
“If you have the courage, do it. Our workers know how to respond,” Shinde said while reacting to comments made by leaders from the rival camp.
‘This Is Just the Trailer’
Taking a direct swipe at the opposition faction, Shinde suggested that more defections could follow in the coming months.
“This is just the trailer. The full film is yet to come. Wait and watch what happens next,” he told the gathering.
Political circles in Maharashtra have been abuzz since reports emerged that six Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs had approached the Lok Sabha Speaker seeking recognition for a merger with the Shinde-led Shiv Sena. However, none of the rebel MPs attended Friday’s foundation day event despite widespread speculation.
Shinde Compares Himself to a Tiger
During his speech, Shinde used strong political imagery to describe the ongoing battle within the Shiv Sena.
“Some people have been barking for the last two days. Dogs move in packs, but a tiger walks alone. Dogs may keep barking, but the tiger hunts,” he said.
Without naming Uddhav Thackeray directly, Shinde also remarked that wearing a tiger’s skin does not make someone a tiger, an apparent reference to the rival faction’s claim over Balasaheb Thackeray’s political legacy.
Sena Is More Than a Political Organisation, Says Shinde
Highlighting the party’s ideological roots, Shinde said Shiv Sena represents a larger movement rather than a personal property.
“Shiv Sena is not a piece of land that someone can claim ownership over. It is a saffron movement. Those who forget its ideology eventually fade away,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister also defended his 2022 rebellion, when he broke away from the undivided Shiv Sena along with several MLAs and MPs to form a government with the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance.
According to Shinde, the success of the alliance in the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections validated that decision.
Rejects Speculation of Rift With Fadnavis
Addressing rumours of differences within the Mahayuti government, Shinde asserted that he shares a strong working relationship with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
“Some people are trying to create misunderstandings between us. But we work together as a team. Our focus is on development and improving the lives of Maharashtra’s people,” he said.
Criticism of INDIA Alliance and Rahul Gandhi
Shinde also targeted the INDIA bloc and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during his speech.
He claimed that the opposition alliance was weakening and alleged that Gandhi’s leadership had negatively impacted several regional parties.
The Shiv Sena leader argued that the Mahayuti alliance remains focused on governance while opposition parties continue to struggle with internal challenges.
Calls for Recognition of Modi Government’s Achievements
Shinde concluded by congratulating Prime Minister Narendra Modi for becoming India’s longest-serving continuously elected Prime Minister. He also praised Union Home Minister Amit Shah for efforts against Left-Wing Extremism and highlighted key decisions such as the abrogation of Article 370 and the construction of the Ram Mandir.
The remarks came as political tensions continue to rise in Maharashtra, with the Shiv Sena split once again taking centre stage ahead of future electoral battles.
