Pune: In a significant move, former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray has directed Shiv Sena UBT officials to remove the traditional bow and arrow symbols from branch boards and replace them with the torch symbol.

This directive was issued during a gathering of Shiv Sena UBT officials in Pune, where Thackeray outlined the party's strategy for the upcoming Assembly elections and criticized the ruling Mahayuti government.

The order comes amidst ongoing disputes between the Shinde and Thackeray factions over control of Shiv Sena branches across Maharashtra. The new directive is likely to escalate these disputes further.

Addressing the officials, Thackeray emphasized the need for a robust ground campaign. "I am coming to Pune after many years. From now on, the battle will be fought in the field, not in the hall," he declared.

Thackeray also took a jibe at BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar's symbolic use of tiger claws. "Mungantiwar has brought tiger claws. But the significance of those claws lies in the fact that there was a king named Shivaji behind them. If Mungantiwar is behind those claws, does it match up with the tiger claws and Mungantiwar?" he questioned pointedly.

Thackeray also launched a scathing attack on Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Addressing party officials and workers, Thackeray reiterated his stance, criticizing Fadnavis sharply.

"I do not challenge any bug; you do not have the capacity for it," Thackeray stated, referencing previous comments made at a Mumbai Shiv Sena rally. "Either you will stay, or I will. Some thought I was challenging them. I do not challenge any bug. I represent a cultured Maharashtra, while you represent those looting Maharashtra and the party. Bugs are not to be challenged; they are to be crushed with a thumb," he asserted.