Aaditya Thackeray Explains Shiv Sena's Decision to Avoid Expanding Beyond Maharashtra to Protect BJP Votes

Aaditya Thackeray, a leader from Shiv Sena UBT, stated that his party refrained from expanding to other states to avoid affecting the vote share of its then ally, the BJP. During the CNN News18 Townhall, Thackeray expressed satisfaction if allies performed well, highlighting this was also true when aligned with the BJP. "Because of the BJP we did not spread to other states, we held ourselves back. We did not go out because we did not want to cut into our allies votes," Thackeray said.

In previous years, the undivided Shiv Sena contested elections in neighbouring regions like Goa despite being allied with the BJP. When questioned about Congress and NCP SP potentially outperforming his party in Maharashtra during the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Thackeray reiterated his contentment if allies succeeded. He mentioned that this principle was upheld by both his grandfather and father. "In Maharashtra, if the NCP SP and the Congress do well we will be happy because we are allies," he added.

Election Performance and Alliances

In Maharashtra's 48 Lok Sabha seats, Congress secured 13 out of 17 seats it contested. Shiv Sena UBT won nine out of 21 seats it contested, while NCP SP captured eight out of 10 seats it contested. The strike rate for Sena UBT was 42%, which was lower than their rival Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena's 47% strike rate.

When asked about a future chief minister possibly emerging from its allies, Thackeray avoided giving a direct answer. He emphasised Uddhav Thackeray's leadership during challenging times like COVID-19 and highlighted initiatives such as loan waivers benefiting farmers. He also noted efforts in ensuring women's safety and addressing youth issues while attracting industries compared to the past two years.

Maha Vikas Aghadi's Collective Effort

The Maha Vikas Aghadi is working together in the Maharashtra assembly elections to prevent what they describe as "the loot of the state." The elections for the 288-member Maharashtra assembly are expected to occur in November.

Thackeray's remarks underscore a commitment to alliance principles and collaboration among political partners for mutual success in upcoming electoral contests.