Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 10: In the backdrop of the upcoming local body elections in Maharashtra, political parties have intensified their efforts to strengthen their ranks. In a significant political development, Ashutosh Nikalje, leader of the Republican Party of India (Nikalje faction), along with hundreds of his supporters, joined Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena on Friday.

The induction ceremony took place at ‘Matoshree’, the residence of party chief Uddhav Thackeray, who personally tied the traditional Shiv Bandhan on Nikalje’s wrist, formally welcoming him and his supporters into the party fold. The entry of the Nikalje faction is expected to boost Shiv Sena (UBT)’s presence in Mumbai and the Konkan region ahead of the elections.

Addressing the newly joined members, Uddhav Thackeray lauded their decision and expressed pride in their commitment. “During testing times, you are proving what the real Shiv Sena stands for. I am proud of you,” he said.

Thackeray also took the opportunity to comment on the current political climate in the country, stressing the importance of explaining to people what true patriotism and genuine Hindutva mean. Without directly naming Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, he took a sharp dig at the ongoing poster campaigns seen across the city.

“Banners and advertisements have flooded the streets. This is all a smokescreen. When real work is done, people acknowledge it on their own — no publicity is needed. But since that spirit is missing, they resort to poster politics,” Thackeray remarked.

The induction of Ashutosh Nikalje and his supporters is being viewed as a strategic move to strengthen Uddhav Thackeray’s position ahead of the crucial civic polls, signaling renewed energy within the Shiv Sena (UBT) ranks.