Shiv Sena vs Shiv Sena In Supreme Court: Bow & Arrow Symbol Battle To Shape Maharashtra’s Political Future

Apex Court begins hearing today in the high-stakes battle between Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde; verdict to have wide-ranging impact on state politics and upcoming civic elections.

New Delhi | Undercover Editor News | November 12, 2025.
The Supreme Court of India will today begin hearing one of the most politically charged cases in recent years — the dispute over the Shiv Sena’s iconic “Bow and Arrow” symbol — a battle that has come to define Maharashtra’s shifting power dynamics.

The case originates from a petition filed by Uddhav Thackeray, chief of the Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) faction, challenging the Election Commission of India’s (ECI) order dated February 17, 2023, which recognised Eknath Shinde’s camp as the “real Shiv Sena” and granted it the original party symbol.

The split, which began in 2022 when Shinde led a dramatic rebellion that brought down the Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, has since reshaped Maharashtra’s political landscape.

The Case Before the Supreme Court
A three-judge bench comprising Justices Surya Kant, Ujjal Bhuyan, and Nongmeikapam Kotiswar Singh is hearing the matter.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing Uddhav Thackeray, sought an early hearing, citing the approaching Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) and other civic elections beginning December 2, 2025.

In his petition, Thackeray argues that the ECI’s decision was “arbitrary and unconstitutional,” claiming that the Commission relied solely on legislative numbers rather than assessing the party’s organisational structure, ideological foundation, and original membership base.

He further contends that the legislative majority alone cannot define the real political entity under the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968, and alleges that the ECI ignored key evidence — including the Thackeray faction’s continued influence in the Legislative Council and Rajya Sabha.

ECI’s Defence
The Election Commission, on the other hand, has defended its decision, maintaining that the Shinde-led faction held a clear majority within the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, and that its ruling was based on established precedents of legislative representation.

Political Implications
The Supreme Court’s final verdict is expected to have sweeping political implications across Maharashtra.
A ruling in favour of Thackeray could reignite his faction’s momentum ahead of the civic polls, while a decision supporting Shinde would further cement the Mahayuti government’s legitimacy led by Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

Analysts say the outcome could determine the future course of alliances, electoral strategies, and even leadership within the broader Maharashtra political spectrum.

As the hearing begins, all eyes are on the Supreme Court — where the judgment could either redefine the Shiv Sena’s identity or solidify its split for good.

Reporter: Undercover Political Desk.
Source: Supreme Court Registry & Political Correspondents
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