Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray has vehemently denied rumors of a potential alliance with Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena (UBT), slamming certain media outlets for misquoting him. In a fiery post on X, Raj clarified that he never discussed any political tie-up and would only make such announcements through an official press conference.

The controversy stems from an informal chat with journalists during an MNS conclave in Igatpuri, Nashik, on July 14-15. Raj recounted being asked about the July 5 victory rally in Mumbai, which celebrated the Maharashtra government’s rollback of controversial orders introducing Hindi as a third language in state schools. “I said the rally was about Marathi pride, not politics. When pressed about an alliance, I simply asked, ‘Should I discuss that with you now?’” Raj explained, dismissing claims that he hinted at deciding on an alliance before municipal elections.

“Words I never spoke were falsely attributed to me,” Raj stated, emphasizing that informal talks should not be misconstrued. Drawing on his journalism background since 1984, he criticized some reporters for unprofessional conduct.

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The July 5 rally saw Raj and Uddhav, cousins long divided by political rivalry, share a stage after two decades, sparking speculation of a reunion ahead of civic polls in Mumbai and other cities, due by year-end. Uddhav, whose Sena considers Mumbai its stronghold, hinted at a lasting partnership, saying, “We have come together to stay together and capture power in Mumbai and Maharashtra.” However, Raj has remained tight-lipped on any alliance, insisting the rally was solely about Marathi identity.

Raj founded MNS in 2005 after parting ways with Shiv Sena over differences with Uddhav, positioning his party as the true advocate for Marathi interests. Despite occasional calls for reconciliation, the cousins’ parties have largely competed against each other in elections.

With civic elections looming, all eyes are on whether the Thackerays will unite or continue their separate paths in Maharashtra’s charged political landscape.

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