Uddhav Thackeray And Sharad Pawar To Part Ways? Shiv Sena UBT Leader Unhappy Over Felicitating Eknath Shinde

Uddhav Thackeray's Shiv Sena (UBT) has voiced dissatisfaction with Sharad Pawar for honouring Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde. This comes amid growing tensions within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance in the state. The felicitation has stirred controversy, as Shinde is seen as a divisive figure by some in the alliance.

According to sources from Uddhav Sena, Thackeray expressed his discontent over the Mahadji Shinde Rashtriya Gaurav Award given to Shinde by NCP-SCP chief Sharad Pawar. Thackeray believes Pawar should have considered the sentiments of the Thackeray family before honouring Shinde, who is accused of fracturing the Shiv Sena.

Political Tensions and Reactions

Reacting to this development, UBT MP Sanjay Raut remarked, "Do you know who gave this award? Such awards given to political leaders are either bought or sold." His comment highlights the perceived transactional nature of political accolades in Maharashtra's current climate.

The rift rumours intensified after the MVA suffered a significant defeat against the BJP-led Mahayuti in the 2024 assembly elections. In response, Uddhav Thackeray announced last month that his faction would contest Maharashtra's municipal elections independently.

Clarifications and Meetings

Sanjay Raut later clarified that going solo in municipal elections was unrelated to MVA's future. He explained that alliances in local polls limit opportunities for party workers. To address concerns, Thackeray met with Sharad Pawar at his South Mumbai residence to discuss these issues further.

Pawar, known as a key figure in forming opposition coalitions, has been working to ease tensions within MVA. He recently stated he would organise a meeting with all three coalition members to strategise for upcoming local body elections.