Mumbai, Jan 13 (NationPress) In an electrifying campaign, the Thackeray brothers made significant connections between the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections and the iconic Samyukta Maharashtra Movement of the 1960s.

With the objective of galvanizing the Marathi vote bank, both leaders portrayed the existing political scenario as a renewed battle for the essence of Mumbai.

The Thackeray brothers jointly described the forthcoming municipal elections as a “crucial conflict” aimed at thwarting a “hostile takeover” of the metropolis.

By invoking the heritage of the Samyukta Maharashtra Movement—a profoundly emotional and influential topic in Mumbai's political saga—the pair sought to present themselves as the exclusive guardians of local interests against the Mahayuti administration.

Uddhav and Raj Thackeray revisited the historical fight that was essential in retaining Mumbai within Maharashtra during the formation of the state. They employed these historical allusions to foster a sense of urgency among voters, implying that the city's identity is once more endangered.

Shiv Sena-UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray linked past fears to the January 15 BMC elections. “To safeguard Maharashtra, we have put aside all differences and united. We will never allow Mumbai to be separated from Maharashtra, nor will we let it submit to anyone,” he asserted.

Discussing his reconciliation with cousin Raj Thackeray, Uddhav remarked, “We have set aside all our disagreements and united solely for Maharashtra's protection. We will not permit anyone to sever Mumbai from this state. If anyone attempts such a move, we will ensure they do not prevail. We pledge today that we will never let Mumbai submit to anyone.”

Warning that Mumbai is “slipping out of Maharashtra's grasp,” the Thackeray brothers reproached the BJP for engaging in “politics of revenge.” They labeled the BMC elections, set for January 15, as a decisive battle for the Marathi identity 'asmita.'

Raj Thackeray delivered a stern warning to Marathi voters, stating, “This is the final election for the Marathi manoos. If you err today, it will be a lifelong mistake.” He urged the community to refrain from internal conflicts, asserting that the BJP flourishes on such divisions.

The Thackeray siblings are confident that the traditional Marathi voter base will rally behind them, viewing their reunion after twenty years as a significant political shift.

The Thackeray brothers expressed anxiety that Mumbai is being “tied to the stake of Gujarat.” They claimed that political and economic interests connected to Gujarat are steadily taking control of the city.

Raj Thackeray clarified that his caution isn't about Mumbai being physically transferred to another state but rather about the loss of control over resources, wealth, and decision-making. They characterized the BMC election as the last chance to prevent outsiders from dominating the city's assets.

Moreover, the Thackeray brothers accused the BJP of relying on religious polarization instead of genuine development.

Uddhav specifically targeted CM Devendra Fadnavis, alleging that he consistently raises “Hindu-Muslim” issues before every election.

Uddhav even offered a reward of Rs 1 lakh to anyone who could identify an election where the BJP did not resort to “religious polarization.”

(Sanjay Jog can be contacted at sanjay.j@ians.in)