Mumbai is bracing for a political showdown as the rival Shiv Sena factions, led by Uddhav Thackeray and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, prepare to hold their separate Dussehra rallies on Thursday. This annual event, significant in Maharashtra's political calendar, marks a tradition that the late Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray started in 1966. However, since the split in the Shiv Sena in 2022, the rallies have become a symbol of the deep division within the party and a platform for both leaders to assert their claims to the Shiv Sena legacy.
Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT) is set to hold its rally at Shivaji Park, a traditional venue for the Dussehra event. Despite challenges posed by recent heavy rains that have left the ground muddy, the party is determined to proceed with the rally at this location. There is also speculation that Uddhav may extend an invitation to his cousin, Raj Thackeray, chief of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), to share the stage. If Raj accepts, this could signal a potential alliance between the Sena and MNS for the upcoming local body polls, particularly the crucial Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections expected in January. Such an alliance could present a united front against the BJP and the Shinde-led Shiv Sena.
Eknath Shinde's faction has shifted its rally venue to the Nesco Centre in Goregaon. The change was made due to waterlogging at the initially planned Azad Maidan. Shinde has emphasized that the Dussehra rally will focus on farmers and aid collection for flood victims. He has also requested workers from flood-affected areas to stay back and help in their regions, with only workers from Mumbai, Thane, and neighboring areas attending the rally. Shinde stated that the rally would be dedicated to the farmers, with workers collecting funds to help them.
The rallies are expected to be major political events where both leaders will likely target each other, staking claim to the 'real' Shiv Sena and outlining their future strategies. The Mumbai Traffic Police have issued a notification warning of likely traffic congestion on the Western Express Highway, Eastern Express Highway, and nearby roads leading to the rally venues. Over 19,000 police officers have been deployed to maintain security across the city.
The Dussehra rallies come at a crucial time, with both factions gearing up for the upcoming Mumbai civic polls. The rallies are seen as an opportunity for both leaders to mobilize their supporters and demonstrate their strength and influence in the city. The results of these rallies could have significant implications for the future of the Shiv Sena and the political landscape of Maharashtra.
