Tomorrow At 12 Noon’: Sanjay Raut Hints At MNS–Shiv Sena (UBT) Tie-Up Ahead Of BMC Elections
Tomorrow At 12 Noon’: Sanjay Raut Hints At MNS–Shiv Sena (UBT) Tie-Up Ahead Of BMC Elections
Mumbai, December 23, 2025: Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) MP Sanjay Raut has indicated that a formal alliance between the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and Shiv Sena (UBT) is imminent, a development that could significantly alter Maharashtra’s political landscape ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections.
Putting an end to weeks of speculation, Raut stated that the alliance between the two parties has already been finalised and that only a formal announcement remains. He said party workers from both sides have accepted the alliance and have begun working together in Mumbai and several other municipal corporations.
Fueling anticipation, Raut shared a photograph of Uddhav Thackeray and Raj Thackeray on social media platform X, accompanied by just three words—“Tomorrow, 12”—sparking strong indications that the official announcement could be made on Wednesday, December 24.
Speaking to the media, Raut said clear instructions have been issued regarding Mumbai and other civic bodies. He added that a final meeting on seat-sharing was held late Monday night. “Only the joint appearance of Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray on one platform remains. This could happen today or tomorrow,” he said.
According to Raut, discussions have been completed for Nashik, while seat-sharing arrangements have been finalised in Pune, Thane, Mira-Bhayandar, and Kalyan-Dombivli.
Responding to statements from the MNS that the alliance should not be considered final until an official announcement is made, Raut said there was nothing unusual about the caution and stressed that there is no tension between the two parties. He asserted that there are no disputes even in Marathi-dominated areas and claimed that any seat won would be considered a victory for the alliance, which he said would pose challenges for the BJP.
Taking a swipe at the Shiv Sena faction led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Raut remarked that “there is no place for traitors anymore” and added that only loyal party workers would be given tickets. He also said the alliance effectively took shape the day both Thackeray cousins appeared together at a public event in Worli.
Raut further criticised the BJP over constitutional institutions, stating that speaking up at the right time is essential to avoid regret later. He also clarified that while the Shiv Sena (UBT) remains open to dialogue with the Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party, political discussions often continue until the last moment.
