Mumbai: In a surprising political development, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis made a light-hearted but significant statement in the Legislative Council on Wednesday. While speaking about outgoing Opposition Leader Ambadas Danve, he gave an unexpected signal to Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray.
Fadnavis said, “Uddhav ji, there is no scope for us to sit in the Opposition until 2029. But if you wish to come here (to the ruling side), it can be considered — although such a decision will need to be taken in a unique way.” This comment, though made in a casual tone, is being seen as a political message suggesting that Uddhav’s party could consider joining the BJP-led NDA.
While praising Ambadas Danve, who belongs to Uddhav’s faction, Fadnavis also said, “Wherever Ambadas Danve may be — whether in the ruling party or the opposition — his true beliefs are rooted in Hindutva.” The praise from Fadnavis surprised many and added more curiosity to the political situation in the state.
This comes at a time when the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections are nearing. The BMC is currently under Uddhav Thackeray’s control, and both BJP and Shiv Sena (UBT) are preparing for a tough contest. The recent meeting between Uddhav and Fadnavis had already raised eyebrows, and now this statement has added fuel to political talks.
Meanwhile, Uddhav recently came together with his cousin and MNS chief Raj Thackeray to oppose the government’s move to make Hindi a mandatory subject in schools. This joint stand came after many years of rivalry between the two. But despite their public appearance, both parties still have strong differences, especially on the MNS’s hard stance against North Indian communities.
Adding to the confusion, Raj Thackeray clarified on X (formerly Twitter) that he never spoke about forming an alliance with Uddhav’s party. He said his comments were wrongly reported by some media outlets. Raj added that if he wants to make such a political statement, he will do it at a press conference.
He explained that the media misquoted him during an informal chat at a party meeting in Igatpuri on July 14 and 15. That event was meant only for selected party leaders and not for making public announcements.
