Shiv Sena Factions Face Off in Dueling Dussehra Rallies in Mumbai Ahead of BMC Elections

The two factions of the Shiv Sena are set to hold simultaneous Dussehra rallies in Mumbai today.

Mumbai is bracing for a significant political showdown as rival Shiv Sena factions prepare for competing Dussehra rallies today, each attempting to demonstrate their dominance ahead of the crucial municipal elections.

The Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) will continue the decades-old tradition by hosting their rally at Shivaji Park in Dadar West, beginning at 5 pm. This venue holds historical significance as it has been the site of Shiv Sena's Dussehra gatherings since founder Bal Thackeray established the practice in 1966.

Meanwhile, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's faction has organized their event at the NESCO Exhibition Centre in Goregaon, scheduled for 6 pm. The Shinde group had initially planned to use Azad Maidan but relocated due to waterlogging caused by heavy rainfall. Shinde has indicated that his rally will include a fundraising component for farmers and families affected by recent floods.

Political analysts view these parallel gatherings as the final major public demonstrations before the upcoming local body elections, particularly for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC). The rallies are expected to feature pointed criticism between the rival factions while also addressing broader issues like Marathi identity, flood relief efforts, and development initiatives.

In preparation for his address, Uddhav Thackeray stated that his speech would highlight the government's performance regarding inflation, unemployment, and flood relief measures.

During a press conference on the eve of the rally, Thackeray criticized the ruling Maha Yuti coalition, alleging that they have neglected public hardships related to unemployment, rising prices, and rural distress. He emphasized that the Dussehra gathering would transcend ceremonial purposes and serve as a platform for public grievances.

"This Dussehra rally will be the voice of the people, not just a cultural event," Thackeray asserted.

He underscored that the rally would reinforce his faction's claim to the authentic Shiv Sena heritage. According to party sources, Thackeray might address potential collaboration with MNS leader Raj Thackeray, though no formal announcement is anticipated during the event. There are indications that Raj Thackeray could attend the Shivaji Park rally, but official confirmation remains pending.

"This rally will be historic. The other side's meeting will only produce smoke," declared Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, questioning Shinde's credentials to claim Bal Thackeray's legacy by suggesting that Shinde "does not understand the late leader."

For the Shinde faction, their rally is being positioned not merely as a demonstration of political influence but also as an exercise in social responsibility, particularly regarding flood relief and agricultural assistance.

In his message to supporters, Shinde stated, "While preserving the traditional grandeur of the Dussehra rally, we have also added an important aspect of social commitment this year. The purpose of this rally is not only a show of political power but also to collect relief funds for farmers and flood victims. This gathering will be dedicated to the farmers."

Both events are expected to attract substantial numbers of party workers and supporters from Mumbai and neighboring districts. Shinde has advised workers from flood-affected areas to remain in their communities and participate in relief operations rather than traveling to Mumbai for the rally.

The Mumbai Police have implemented comprehensive security measures for the dual events. Over 19,000 police personnel, including constables, officers, and specialized units, will be deployed throughout the city to manage crowd movement, implement traffic diversions, and maintain public order.

With large crowds anticipated from across Maharashtra converging on Mumbai, authorities have planned road closures and traffic restrictions around Shivaji Park, Goregaon, and other key access points.