Special Correspondent
Mumbai : In a significant political development, Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray are set to join forces for a joint protest rally on July 5 in Mumbai against the state government’s decision to enforce Hindi language education from Grade 1 under the National Education Policy’s three-language formula.
Originally, the two leaders had planned separate rallies: Raj Thackeray, chief of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), had called for a massive demonstration at Girgaon Chowpatty on July 5, while Uddhav Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT faction), had announced a rally under the banner of Marathi Coordination Committee on July 7. However, political observers and the public questioned the need for separate rallies when the core issue—protection of Marathi language and opposition to Hindi imposition—was shared by both factions.
Responding to this sentiment, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut announced on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday morning that both parties would unite for a single rally, “A united and singular protest will be held in Maharashtra against the imposition of Hindi in schools. Jai Maharashtra!”
The tweet was accompanied by a joint photo of Raj and Uddhav, symbolizing their rare public alignment. This announcement confirms that the two estranged Thackeray brothers will share the same political stage, a development that could reshape the dynamics of Maharashtra politics.
The Maharashtra government recently decided to make Hindi a compulsory subject from Grade 1 as part of implementing the three-language formula under the NEP. This decision has triggered strong opposition from regional parties, especially MNS and the Shiv Sena (UBT), who argue that this undermines Marathi linguistic identity and imposes unnecessary language burden on students.
Raj Thackeray, in his statement earlier this week, warned of a “systematic erosion of Marathi culture and language”, stating that “Marathi people must unite and resist this forced imposition.” His call for a July 5 rally gained momentum, leading to widespread support from Marathi groups and cultural bodies.
Meanwhile, MNS leader Sandeep Deshpande emphasized the importance of unity on this issue, saying “This is not about party politics; it’s about the survival of the Marathi language. Raj Thackeray gave the call, and Uddhav Thackeray responded. Both leaders are on the same page, and the people of Maharashtra will see the united strength of Marathi pride on July 5.”
This joint rally marks a rare collaboration between the Thackeray brothers, who have led separate political parties since their fallout in the mid-2000s. Speculations about a possible reunion have floated for months, and this issue may now serve as a platform for political rapprochement.
With the Local body elections in Maharashtra approaching in 2025, political analysts believe that this show of unity may be a strategic shift to consolidate Marathi voters and challenge the ruling coalition led by the BJP and Shinde faction.
