Eknath Shinde sidesteps Shiv sena merger talk, says his faction carries Bal Thackeray’s ideology

MUMBAI: Deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde on Monday played down speculation about a possible merger between the two Shiv Sena factions, asserting that his party represents the true ideology of late Bal Thackeray.Shinde said his Shiv Sena has the mandate of the people and is continuing the legacy of Hindutva and grassroots politics. He was responding to questions after remarks by Shiv Sena MLA Abdul Sattar and Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC Ambadas Danve reignited discussions about a possible reconciliation between the two factions.Without giving a direct answer on a potential rapprochement with Uddhav Thackeray’s faction, Shinde said his group had formed a government that reflects the aspirations of the people of Maharashtra and continues to receive public support in elections.“We are moving forward, upholding the ideology of Balasaheb—the ideology of Hindutva. We have successfully established a government that truly reflects the aspirations of the common people of Maharashtra—not just once, but twice,” Shinde said.He added that his faction continues to receive support in local body elections and credited party workers for the victories.The remarks came after Mahayuti candidate Ravindra Phatak filed his nomination from the Thane-Palghar constituency for the upcoming MLC elections.Meanwhile, Ambadas Danve alleged that the BJP was attempting to weaken the Shiv Sena, comparing the political situation to a “big fish eating small fish.” Abdul Sattar also made remarks suggesting internal tensions within the alliance.Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut responded sharply, claiming that the “real Shiv Sena” remains with Uddhav Thackeray and accusing the Shinde-led faction of functioning under the influence of the BJP.Raut questioned the political standing of leaders aligned with the ruling alliance, urging them to clarify their position and “account for their political identity” in the current situation.