Sanjay Raut : Shiv Sena–MNS already united; “No need for permission” Raut's strong jibe at Congress

In the backdrop of the Mumbai municipal elections, the political atmosphere has heated up due to the differences of opinion within the Congress on whether or not to include MNS in the Maha Vikas Aghadi. While Varsha Gaikwad has clearly refused to go with MNS, some senior leaders are inclined towards fighting alongside MNS. Against this backdrop, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) party MP Sanjay Raut has directly targeted the Congress, once again emphasizing the 'public desire' for Shiv Sena-MNS unification.

While speaking to the media, Sanjay Raut said, “The Congress's decision could be their personal issue. Not including MNS in the alliance without orders from Delhi might be their internal rule. But Shiv Sena and MNS have already come together. This coming together is the will of the people, and we absolutely do not need anyone's permission or orders for this.” At this time, Raut claimed that left parties along with Sharad Pawar are “with us to save Mumbai,” indicating that the Mahavikas Aghadi might appear in a new formation in the municipal elections.

Thackeray brothers to fight together, Raut's big statement

Speaking further, Sanjay Raut said, “Whatever decision Congress makes, let it be theirs. But for the Mumbai Municipal Corporation, Thackeray's Shiv Sena and Raj Thackeray's MNS – both brothers will fight together. We also have the support of small local parties.” After this statement, it appears that only the formal announcement of the Shiv Sena-MNS alliance is a matter of time.

Tension in Congress: Varsha Gaikwad in denial, Wadettiwar positive

Mumbai Congress President Varsha Gaikwad has taken a clear stance against joining forces with MNS. However, senior state leader Vijay Wadettiwar has presented a completely different perspective. Wadettiwar said, “In some places, Congress and MNS have already collaborated at the local level. There is no objection to joining MNS where needed. Everyone should come together against BJP. Even if the ideologies do not match, forming an alliance is necessary.”

This stance is similar to Sharad Pawar's statement. Pawar had recently given positive indications about joining forces with MNS.

Indications of Changing Political Equations

With increasing disagreements among the Congress-Shiv Sena-NCP ahead of the municipal elections, everyone is watching to see if a new political structure will emerge in the upcoming Mumbai elections. Due to Sanjay Raut's stance today, the decision for Shiv Sena and MNS to contest together is almost certain, which could pose a significant challenge for Congress. In the coming days, these developments will undoubtedly lead Maharashtra's politics into a new phase.