In the aftermath of the Maharashtra Assembly elections, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray convened a crucial meeting with his party’s 20 newly elected MLAs on Monday at his residence, Matoshree. The meeting marked a strategic reshuffle as the party grapples with its diminished strength in the assembly.
Uddhav Thackeray made a bold move by requiring all 20 MLAs to sign affidavits pledging loyalty to the party. The affidavit stated, “I will remain loyal to the party and will abide by the decisions and policy decided by the party chief Uddhav Thackeray.” This step comes in the wake of claims by the rival Eknath Shinde faction that Shiv Sena (UBT) MLAs might defect in the days ahead.
Aaditya Thackeray Elevated as Legislative Party Leader
In a significant appointment, Uddhav Thackeray named his son, Aaditya Thackeray, as the leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT) legislative party. Aaditya, who secured re-election from the Worli constituency, is seen as a unifying figure aimed at preventing a repeat of the 2022 rebellion. That revolt, led by Eknath Shinde, resulted in a major split in the undivided Shiv Sena and a realignment of power with the BJP.
Bhaskar Jadhav, a senior MLA and a seasoned politician, was appointed as the group leader in the assembly. Jadhav, a seven-time MLA known for his oratory skills and deep understanding of legislative procedures, was the lone Shiv Sena (UBT) candidate to secure a seat in the Konkan region, a former stronghold of the party. Jadhav expressed gratitude to Uddhav Thackeray for his appointment, stating, “My appointment was a surprise for me… I will try my best to repay the confidence shown in me by him.”
Sunil Prabhu will continue to serve as the party’s chief whip, ensuring discipline among MLAs.
Push for Leader of Opposition Role
The Shiv Sena (UBT) plans to stake its claim for the position of Leader of Opposition, citing its status as the largest party among the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance. The Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) factions led by Sharad Pawar won 16 and 10 seats, respectively.
Thackeray emphasized the importance of standing up to the Mahayuti government, which secured a historic mandate of 235 seats out of 288. Addressing the MLAs, Thackeray said, “Although we are less in number than earlier, being from the Shiv Sena, your voice will be equal to that of ruling parties… attack the government fearlessly.”
Rebuilding Amid Challenges
The strategic appointments and loyalty affidavits signal Thackeray’s determination to prevent further defections and consolidate his faction. With Aaditya Thackeray leading from the front and Bhaskar Jadhav steering the assembly strategy, Shiv Sena (UBT) appears focused on rebuilding its political presence and playing a critical role in opposition.
As the party prepares to approach the Assembly Speaker to formalize its claim for the Leader of Opposition post, the next steps will be crucial in shaping the party’s future amidst a significantly altered political landscape in Maharashtra.