The political atmosphere in Maharashtra has once again become tense following a fiery press conference by Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Sandeep Deshpande earlier this morning. The controversy revolves around speculation of a potential alliance between the MNS and the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT).
In a scathing attack on Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut, Deshpande questioned his credibility and influence within the party. “Those who raise questions from the streets of Mumbai to Delhi should not be advising us,” Deshpande said pointedly. “The spoons on the plate should do the work of spoons—they should not come out and try to feed us.”
Deshpande further clarified that party chief Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray has not officially mentioned any intent to form an alliance with the MNS. “No such discussion has taken place. Those acting like spokespeople are creating unnecessary confusion. We are still unclear whether the party chief supports the idea or not, and therefore, there is no point in discussing it,” he added.
Referring to Thackeray’s recent statement during the Shiv Sena's anniversary, Deshpande raised doubts about the party’s internal understanding. “He said that what is in the minds of Shiv Sainiks and the people of Maharashtra will happen. But during the Mahabaleshwar convention, every Shiv Sainik wanted Raj Thackeray to be appointed working president. That didn’t happen. So, does he really understand what’s in the minds of his own cadre?” Deshpande questioned.
In a swift rebuttal, Sanjay Raut also held a press conference to defend himself and clarify the party's stance. “Sandeep Deshpande merely expressed his views. The party chief has taken note of it. But let me be clear: the decision on any alliance will be made solely by Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray,” said Raut.
Raut emphasized his long-standing association with the Thackeray family. “I’ve observed both Uddhav and Raj closely for many years. I understand the nuances of their decisions more than those who are new to politics. What matters is not what Deshpande says, but what Uddhav and Raj say,” he asserted.
Drawing a parallel with the formation of the Maha Vikas Aghadi, Raut reminded the media that many once thought an alliance between the Shiv Sena, Congress, and NCP was impossible. “Yet, it happened. The coalition ran a stable government for three years. Politics is about patience and possibility,” he said.
Raut also took a veiled dig at Deshpande’s tone, saying, “In politics, arrogance gets you nowhere. One needs to be calm, especially when talking about the identity and rights of Maharashtra and its people.”
Citing the history of the Samyukta Maharashtra movement, Raut added, “Leaders from ideologically diverse parties like the Communists, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, and the Socialists united for the cause of Maharashtra. We need to learn from that history.”
As speculation swirls around a potential political realignment ahead of upcoming elections, this exchange underscores the deep divisions and fragile dynamics within Maharashtra’s opposition parties.