Will MNS Overcome Differences and Unite for BMC Victory?

Mumbai, Aug 4 (NationPress) The chief of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), Raj Thackeray, urged his party members on Monday to set aside their differences and unite for the forthcoming elections to the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). He stated that an announcement regarding a potential alliance with the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena would be made at the appropriate time.

During a party gathering, Raj Thackeray remarked, “If we two brothers (referring to the reunion between Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray during protests against the introduction of Hindi from grade one) can reconcile after 20 years, then why engage in conflicts among ourselves?”

He encouraged his supporters to commence preparations for the BMC elections with a spirit of unity, urging them to put aside internal disputes. “Leave the decision regarding Shiv Sena (UBT) to me. I will discuss the alliance when the time is right, so await my further guidance,” he emphasized.

The MNS chief expressed strong confidence, asserting, “This time, MNS will definitely achieve victory in the municipal elections.”

“Our party is robust and capable in Mumbai. This time, we will secure power in the BMC. Engage with former members and office bearers, reconnect with those who have distanced themselves from the party, and begin preparing for the elections,” he urged.

Raj Thackeray also cautioned against factionalism, stressing that current office bearers must collaborate closely with newcomers to demonstrate unity in their pursuit of winning the BMC elections.

He instructed party members to meticulously review the voters' list from each ward and ensure it is regularly updated.

In light of recent controversies surrounding the party workers' treatment of Hindi speakers, Raj Thackeray advised the cadre to avoid hostility towards non-Marathi speakers and instead calmly explain the MNS's stance on Marathi.

He urged party workers to expand outreach among both Marathi and non-Marathi voters, clarifying the MNS's position on the language.

“Do not engage in violence, but rather articulate the MNS's position on Marathi. If they are willing to learn and speak Marathi, then teach them,” Raj Thackeray reiterated.

While Raj Thackeray remained somewhat ambiguous regarding a potential collaboration with Shiv Sena (UBT), his remarks about the brothers' reconciliation after 20 years hinted at a possible alliance.

Recently, Uddhav Thackeray, the chief of Shiv Sena (UBT), also encouraged his party members to begin preparations for the BMC elections, without waiting for a resolution on a partnership with MNS.