Pune, 4th June 2025: Maharashtra’s political atmosphere is heating up ahead of upcoming municipal elections, with a significant development unfolding on two fronts. Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and MNS chief Raj Thackeray are set to share the stage for the first time in 20 years on July 5, in a rally focused on Marathi identity and issues. This joint appearance by the Thackeray cousins is being viewed as a potential game-changer in the state’s political equations.
However, even as calls for Marathi pride intensify, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has courted controversy by chanting “Jai Gujarat” during a public event in Pune. The event was attended by Union Home Minister Amit Shah. From the stage, Shinde concluded his speech with "Jai Hind, Jai Maharashtra, Jai Gujarat", a slogan that has drawn sharp criticism from opposition leaders and sparked a fresh political storm.
Opposition parties have questioned the intent behind the inclusion of "Jai Gujarat" in a Maharashtra-based event. Critics argue that at a time when unity on Marathi issues is being projected, such a slogan undermines regional sentiments
MNS leader Manoj Chavan lashed out at Shinde, saying, “This is real servility. Just to please Amit Shah, he shouted 'Jai Gujarat' in Maharashtra. This is not only an insult to Maharashtra but also to the Marathi people. A person in such a position must speak with responsibility. This kind of loyalty shows how low the level of politics has dropped.”
Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut also took a jibe at Shinde, remarking, “What can we expect from someone whose party was born in Surat?”
On the other hand, BJP leader and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis defended Shinde, stating, “Even Sharad Pawar once said ‘Jai Karnataka’ at a programme. That doesn’t mean he doesn’t love Maharashtra. The slogan was given in the context of a Gujarat-related event.”
The issue has now become the center of a larger debate, especially as regional pride and identity are expected to dominate the narrative in the lead-up to the municipal polls.