In a significant political development in Maharashtra, former Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) functionary Prakash Mahajan formally joined the Shiv Sena faction led by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Friday. The induction ceremony took place in Thane, marking a notable shift in the local political landscape ahead of crucial civic polls.
A Defection Driven by Ideology and Discontent
Prakash Mahajan, the brother of late BJP stalwart Pramod Mahajan, ended his long association with the Raj Thackeray-led MNS, which began at the party's inception in 2006. His exit earlier this year was attributed to growing differences with the MNS leadership and a feeling of being sidelined within the party organization.
Announcing the move, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde stated that Mahajan would serve as a party spokesperson and would actively work to strengthen the Shiv Sena's organizational base. Shinde emphasized that Mahajan has always been a "Shiv Sainik at heart" who understands the struggles of the common man.
Criticism of UBT and a Call for Pure Hindutva
While addressing the media, Mahajan revealed that his decision was partly influenced by the recent induction of Rashid Khan into the rival Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray. He launched a sharp critique, questioning the Thackeray faction's commitment to Hindutva. "How can they talk of Hindutva when they have inducted someone who was associated with communal riots in the past?" Mahajan asked reporters.
He clarified that his move to Shinde's camp was not motivated by personal ambition. Mahajan asserted he joined without demanding any post or election ticket, driven purely by a desire to champion the ideology of Hindutva and the principles of the late Balasaheb Thackeray.
Shinde's Attack on Thackerays and Mahayuti Alliance Talks
Deputy Chief Minister Shinde used the occasion to take a veiled dig at Uddhav and Raj Thackeray. He claimed that those who abandoned Balasaheb Thackeray's core principles are now facing the consequences, as voters have rejected them in previous elections. "They are now forging new alliances, but it's largely driven by selfish interests and hunger for power," Shinde stated.
On the upcoming civic elections, Shinde confirmed that seat-sharing talks within the ruling Mahayuti alliance (comprising Shiv Sena, BJP, and NCP) for the Thane and suburban municipal corporations are at an advanced stage. A final decision is expected to be announced within a day or two. He expressed confidence in the coalition's victory and noted that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is actively reviewing election preparations and is keen on a strong alliance performance.
This political realignment underscores the ongoing churn in Maharashtra's politics, with key figures repositioning themselves ahead of crucial urban local body elections, where the Thane region holds substantial strategic importance.
