“Batenge To Katenge” Politics Turns on Its Head: Uddhav and Raj Thackeray Reunite Ahead of Mumbai Civic Polls

Mumbai | Undercover Editor News Channel

Mumbai:

In a dramatic political development that could reshape Mumbai’s civic landscape, estranged cousins Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray have formally reunited to contest the upcoming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections together. Ending nearly two decades of political separation, the leaders announced a Shiv Sena (UBT)–Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) alliance, positioning Marathi identity at the centre of their campaign.

Addressing a joint press conference, Raj Thackeray declared the alliance official, stating that the January 15 civic polls would be fought together. He asserted confidently that Mumbai will get a Marathi mayor, assuring voters that the post would belong to the Shiv Sena–MNS alliance.

Standing beside him, Uddhav Thackeray echoed the sentiment, saying, “Mumbai will remain with us, come what may.” He alleged that the city has become an “eyesore” for those ruling from Delhi and said the Thackeray family had reunited out of a sense of responsibility towards Maharashtra.

A sharp political message

Uddhav Thackeray also delivered a pointed political message by reinterpreting Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s slogan “Batenge toh katenge.”

“The BJP says divided we fall. I say, ‘chukal tar sampal’ — if you falter now, you will be finished,” he warned, adding that the alliance would oppose any attempt to politically or administratively separate Mumbai from Maharashtra.

Raj Thackeray, known for his aggressive oratory, emphasised that the alliance would ensure Marathi people receive their rightful place in the city. He said Marathi pride and identity — once championed by Balasaheb Thackeray — would once again guide Mumbai’s politics.

Beyond elections, say leaders

Calling the alliance larger than an electoral arrangement, Raj Thackeray said Maharashtra needs stability at a time when political splits and defections have become common. “This is not just about elections; it is about the long-term future of Maharashtra,” he said.

Uddhav Thackeray extended an open invitation to leaders unhappy within the Shinde Sena–BJP coalition, suggesting they join hands with the Thackeray-led alliance.

Seat-sharing and strategy

While official seat-sharing details were not disclosed, sources indicate that the Uddhav Sena may contest around 145–150 seats, while the MNS could field candidates in 65–70 wards. The Sharad Pawar-led NCP faction is also expected to be part of the broader alliance, contesting a limited number of seats.

The reunion shifts the political narrative from the debate over the “real Shiv Sena” to what supporters are calling the “Thackeray Sena,” reinforcing the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray through family unity.

Reactions and political impact

Senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut described the reunion as a moment of joy for Marathi voters and Maharashtra as a whole. He said the absence of Thackeray unity over the last two decades had weakened regional politics, and the alliance would now counter what he termed the “loot of Mumbai.”

Political observers believe the tie-up blends Uddhav Thackeray’s emotional connect with traditional Sena voters and Raj Thackeray’s appeal among youth, potentially consolidating the Marathi vote bank and posing a serious challenge to the ruling Mahayuti alliance.

With the BMC elections just weeks away, the Thackeray cousins’ reunion has injected fresh energy into Mumbai’s civic battle — setting the stage for one of the most closely watched municipal contests in recent history.