‘Only One Shiv Sena Remains’: Amit Shah Targets Uddhav Thackeray, Says Eknath Shinde’s Party Is No Longer a ‘Faction’

Union Home Minister Amit Shah launched a fresh political attack on Uddhav Thackeray, asserting that there is now "only one Shiv Sena" and that the party led by Eknath Shinde can no longer be described as a faction.

The remarks are being seen as one of the strongest endorsements yet from the BJP leadership of Shinde's claim to the Shiv Sena legacy.

Shah Backs Shinde's Leadership

Addressing party workers and supporters, Shah argued that the political situation in Maharashtra has fundamentally changed since the split in the Shiv Sena.

According to him, Shinde's organisation has evolved beyond being a breakaway group and now represents the principal Shiv Sena in both political and organizational terms.

"Only one Shiv Sena remains," Shah said, dismissing suggestions that Shinde's camp should still be viewed as a faction.

Fresh Blow to Uddhav Thackeray Camp

The comments are likely to intensify the ongoing rivalry between the Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT).

Since the split that reshaped Maharashtra politics, both sides have continued to battle over political legitimacy, voter support and the legacy of party founder Bal Thackeray.

Shah's statement reinforces the BJP's position that the Shinde camp has emerged as the dominant force.

Maharashtra Politics Remain Heated

The Shiv Sena split remains one of the defining developments in Maharashtra politics over the past few years.

What began as a rebellion led by Shinde eventually resulted in a change of government and a dramatic restructuring of political alliances in the state.

The rivalry between the two camps has continued through elections, court battles and organizational contests.

BJP-Shiv Sena Alliance on Display

Shah's remarks also signal the BJP's continued commitment to its alliance with Shinde.

The BJP leadership has repeatedly projected the Shinde-led Sena as its principal regional partner in Maharashtra, particularly ahead of future electoral battles.

Political observers view such statements as part of a broader effort to consolidate support among traditional Shiv Sena voters.

Uddhav Camp Pushes Back

Leaders of the Uddhav Thackeray camp have consistently rejected claims that their party has lost relevance, arguing that the original ideology and voter base remain with them.

They have accused the BJP and Shinde camp of attempting to appropriate the legacy of Bal Thackeray for political gain.

The latest remarks from Shah are expected to draw a sharp response from Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders.

Implications for Future Elections

The debate over which faction truly represents the Shiv Sena remains central to Maharashtra's political landscape.

With local body elections and future state contests on the horizon, both camps are seeking to strengthen their claim to the party's traditional support base.

Statements from senior leaders such as Amit Shah are likely to influence the narrative heading into those battles.

Looking Ahead

Shah's declaration that "only one Shiv Sena remains" underscores the BJP's confidence in Eknath Shinde's political standing and signals that the alliance intends to continue challenging Uddhav Thackeray's relevance.

As Maharashtra's political contest intensifies, the battle over the Shiv Sena's identity, legacy and future is likely to remain at the center of state politics.