Narayan Rane Declares Thackeray Politics Irrelevant

BJP MP Narayan Rane on Monday declared the political influence of cousins Uddhav and Raj Thackeray, leaders of Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) respectively, as “over,” dismissing speculation about their potential alliance ahead of Maharashtra’s civic elections. Speaking to reporters, Rane downplayed the significance of a possible reunion, stating, “I am not interested in whether Uddhav and Raj Thackeray are coming together or not. Their politics is over.”

Addressing rumors that Uddhav might visit Raj’s residence during the Ganesh festival, Rane remarked, “What difference does it make if an individual visits another’s residence? It is insignificant.” Political circles in Maharashtra have been abuzz with talk of a potential alliance between the estranged Thackeray cousins, who split in 2005 when Raj formed MNS after leaving Shiv Sena. However, no formal announcement has been made regarding a collaboration for the upcoming civic polls in key cities like Mumbai, Thane, and Nashik.

Rane also rejected opposition leader Rahul Gandhi’s allegations of “vote theft,” asserting, “Whatever is said by Rahul Gandhi or Uddhav Thackeray is meaningless. It won’t impact the outcome of elections.” His comments reflect the BJP’s confidence in its electoral dominance, with the party-led Mahayuti alliance securing 235 seats in the 2024 Maharashtra Assembly elections.

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Shifting focus to infrastructure, Rane discussed ongoing road improvements between Mumbai and Sindhudurg, a key issue in his Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg constituency. He noted that Union Minister Nitin Gadkari had assured him of progress on the pothole-ridden stretch. “Today, I will speak to him again to confirm the timeline and quality of the work, and I will update the media,” Rane added.

Rane’s remarks underscore the BJP’s strategy to marginalize the Thackerays’ influence in Maharashtra, particularly in the Konkan region, where both Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS have historically drawn support. As civic elections approach, political analysts suggest the Thackerays’ potential alliance could aim to consolidate the Marathi vote, though Rane’s dismissal signals the BJP’s belief in its unchallenged position.

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