A renewed call for unity among opposition parties and a defence of Marathi identity were strongly voiced at a political gathering in Panvel, as the local body elections approach in Maharashtra. On Saturday, the 78th anniversary celebration of the Peasants and Workers Party (PWP) was used as a platform where Shiv Sena (UBT), Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), and the PWP appeared to set aside their differences, sending strong signals of collaboration.
The event was marked by a spirited address by MNS chief Raj Thackeray, whose statements drew attention to issues of land acquisition and cultural dilution in Raigad. It was alleged that large parcels of land were being sold to non-local entities under the pretext of development, with locals being left out of employment opportunities generated from these projects. Residents of Raigad were urged not to relinquish ownership of their land, and it was suggested that any land transactions should include demands for partnerships or stakes in the ventures being established. The fear that the loss of land, language, and livelihood could lead to the decline of the Marathi population was raised.
Also criticised were recent language policy decisions of the BJP-led Mahayuti government. A failed attempt to introduce Hindi in primary schools across the state was pointed out, and it was questioned why such measures were not imposed in Gujarat, the home state of national leaders Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. An emphasis was placed on the importance of preserving Marathi as a medium of instruction and cultural identity. Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut reinforced these sentiments. He underlined the need to safeguard the rights of Maharashtra’s farmers and workers, and warned against the unchecked influence of non-local forces over the state’s economy and culture.
Political observers viewed the event as more than a ceremonial anniversary; it was interpreted as a public display of political realignment. The MNS and Sena (UBT), who had previously experienced a family and ideological split, were seen sharing the stage for the second time in recent weeks. The presence of NCP (SP) leader Shashikant Shinde added further weight to the possibility of a broader opposition alliance. The PWP, once a dominant force in Raigad, has seen a decline due to internal divisions and defections, including the exit of close relatives of veteran leader Jayant Patil. Meanwhile, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, which includes the Sena (UBT), NCP (SP), and Congress, has also lost significant political space to the ruling Mahayuti coalition in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR).
However, it has been indicated by senior PWP members that previous friction within the MVA has now been resolved. The past disagreements that led to defeats in recent elections, including the legislative council race, are believed to have been put behind. The participation of senior Sena leaders at the event was viewed as a sign that former rifts are being healed. The local body elections in Raigad are being seen as a litmus test for these parties. With massive infrastructure projects like the Virar-Alibaug corridor and industrial parks planned in the district, political battles are expected to revolve around land rights, employment promises, and regional identity. A unified front by the MNS and MVA could alter the electoral dynamics significantly. As the political landscape shifts, it remains to be seen whether this show of solidarity will translate into renewed support from the Marathi-speaking electorate.