Will decide on contesting solo when needed: Uddhav Thackeray

Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), addressed party workers at his residence, Matoshree, on Dec 3, affirming that the decision to contest future elections independently would be taken "if and when required."

The meeting comes as the party gears up for significant local body elections early next year, including the pivotal Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) polls.

During the gathering of over 50 former and aspiring corporators, Thackeray focused on reclaiming the party's position in Mumbai's civic politics while countering allegations from the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena that the Shiv Sena (UBT) has strayed from its pro-Hindutva ideology.

These accusations stem from the party's alliance with the Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) under the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA).

The BMC polls, anticipated in February or March following a three-year delay, are critical for the Shiv Sena (UBT), which has controlled the country's wealthiest civic body for 25 years when it was undivided.

However, the Shinde-led Sena has already managed to bring 47 former corporators from MVA-affiliated parties into its fold, with more defections anticipated under the ruling Mahayuti alliance's efforts.

Thackeray acknowledged the party's setbacks in the Maharashtra assembly elections but highlighted a silver lining: the Shiv Sena (UBT) secured 10 out of 36 assembly seats in Mumbai, constituting half of its overall tally in the state.

In his address, Thackeray emphasized the importance of solidarity among party members, warning them that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) might exploit Shinde's leadership for the BMC polls only to abandon him later. He challenged attendees to declare their loyalty, asking whether they intended to remain committed to the Shiv Sena (UBT) or depart.

To improve the party's prospects, Thackeray proposed appointing observers to review the reasons behind the assembly poll losses and suggested elected representatives allocate their funds effectively to showcase developmental work in their constituencies.

Aaditya Thackeray, the Shiv Sena (UBT)'s legislative party leader, also addressed members, urging them not to attribute failures solely to electronic voting machines (EVMs). He encouraged introspection and stressed the importance of performing well in the upcoming civic elections. The party plans to hold strategy conclaves for leaders and workers in preparation.

Reiterating the party’s commitment to its pro-Hindutva ideology, Uddhav Thackeray called on members to reassure voters and dismantle the narrative propagated by the Shinde-led Sena. "Despite their claims, Shiv Sena (UBT) stands firm in its Hindutva values," he said.

Reacting to the developments, Sheetal Mhatre, spokesperson for the Shinde faction, remarked, “The BMC polls are still some time away. Let them start preparing; many Shiv Sena (UBT) members have already joined us.”

As the battle for Mumbai’s civic body intensifies, the Shiv Sena (UBT) aims to revive its electoral fortunes by blending introspection, strategy, and renewed commitment to its core values.