Former allies turned rivals, Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, held a 20-minute meeting today at Vidhan Bhavan, stirring intrigue in political circles. The discussion, held in the ante-chamber of Vidhan Parishad Chairman Ram Shinde, centered on the appointment of the Leader of the Opposition and the state’s three-language policy, but it gained attention following Fadnavis’ lighthearted “join us” remark to Thackeray a day earlier.

Thackeray, leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), pressed for the Speaker to approve Bhaskar Jadhav as the Leader of the Opposition, a demand backed by the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition in the last assembly session. However, Speaker Rahul Narvekar has yet to decide, with Fadnavis noting that the decision rests solely with the Speaker. Aaditya Thackeray also attended the meeting, where the three-language policy was discussed.

In a symbolic gesture, Thackeray gifted Fadnavis a book titled Why Hindi Should Not Be Imposed, a compilation of articles by Maharashtra editors. Fadnavis accepted it but suggested Thackeray share a copy with Narendra Jadhav, head of the committee reviewing the language policy.

Also Read: Union Minister Vows Crackdown on Marathi Bullying in Maharashtra

The meeting follows Fadnavis’ playful comment during a farewell for Opposition Leader Ambadas Danve, where he invited Thackeray to join the ruling Mahayuti alliance, saying, “Uddhav-ji, if you want to come over here, it can be considered.” Thackeray dismissed it as a “joke,” reiterating his faction’s rejection of rejoining the BJP.

The brief but significant interaction has fueled speculation about potential shifts in Maharashtra’s political landscape as the state navigates ongoing tensions between the ruling coalition and the opposition.

Also Read: Congress Slams Attack on Sambhaji Brigade Chief, CM Confirms Arrests