BJP Hits Out at Uddhav-Raj Rally

BJP Reacts Sharply to Thackeray Cousins' Reunion, Calls it ‘Desperate Politics’

The reunion of estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray at a joint rally in Mumbai has triggered intense political commentary, particularly from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which has accused the duo of indulging in divisive and opportunistic politics ahead of elections.

The Thackeray cousins, who once led rival Shiv Sena factions, shared the stage in what was projected as a show of Marathi pride. However, BJP leaders saw it as little more than an act of political survival.

'Jihadi Gathering’ and Appeasement Politics: Nitesh Rane, Shelar React

Maharashtra minister and BJP MLA Nitesh Rane made the most inflammatory remark, dubbing the event a “jihadi gathering”. “They are not promoting unity. Just like extremists seek to divide the nation, they too are playing dangerous games with Marathi sentiments,” he said.

Echoing this view, Mumbai BJP president Ashish Shelar accused the Thackerays of staging an “appeasement drama” under the pretext of a cultural event. “The municipal elections are around the corner, and suddenly the ‘Ubatha Sena’ remembers brotherhood? Where was it all these years?” he wrote on X, using a derisive term for Uddhav's faction.

A Calmer Voice Within BJP

In contrast, senior BJP leader and former state minister Sudhir Mungantiwar adopted a more reconciliatory tone. He welcomed the reunion, saying, “If Uddhav and Raj are truly reuniting as brothers, then it’s a positive step. Perhaps even their parties should consider merging for the greater good of Maharashtra.”

National-Level Criticism: ‘Language Used as a Tool’

Union minister Chirag Paswan also weighed in, accusing the Thackerays of exploiting regional pride for personal gain. “Their coming together is not about the Marathi language. It’s about reclaiming lost political relevance,” he said.

Paswan also hit back at Raj Thackeray's earlier remarks targeting Hindi-speaking states, particularly Bihar. “The Constitution gives all Indians the right to live and work anywhere. This kind of regional divisiveness should not be encouraged,” he added.

Language vs. Politics Debate Intensifies

The rally, which initially appeared to be a symbolic gesture of unity between two powerful Marathi leaders, has instead turned into a flashpoint over regionalism and electoral politics. With municipal and state elections approaching, alliances are being scrutinized for deeper political calculations than what’s visible on stage.