Pune: In an unexpected show of unity, the leaders of Thackeray faction of Shiv Sena and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) came together at a peace rally led by Manoj Jarange Patil in Pune.
The rally, which saw the participation of former Shiv Sena corporator Vishal Dhanawade and MNS state secretary Ashish Sable, was marked by the two factions setting aside their political differences to support the cause of Maratha reservation.
Both leaders emphasized that their participation was driven by a sense of social responsibility, transcending party lines and past conflicts.
Amid preparations for the upcoming assembly elections, a series of tours, meetings, and gatherings are ongoing. In this context, Manoj Jarange Patil's aggressive stance on the Maratha reservation issue has become apparent. This has led to criticism from opponents of Raj Thackeray's stance.
Meanwhile, there have been attacks on the convoys of both MNS president Raj Thackeray and Thackeray faction leader Uddhav Thackeray. The rivalry between the Shiv Sena Thackeray faction and MNS has intensified, with leaders from both factions responding in kind.
Manoj Jarange Patil's peace rally advocating for Maratha reservation is set to commence today from Sarasbaug, moving along Bajirao Road, through Jangli Maharaj Road, and concluding at Deccan.
Welcome banners for Jarange Patil have been put up at various locations along the route, and police security has been deployed.
Across the state, Jarange Patil is leading awareness campaigns and peace rallies in support of the Maratha reservation demand.
Large banners and saffron flags are also visible at Sarasbaug Junction, and floral decorations have been arranged around the statue of Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj at Deccan.
Gradually, Maratha community members are gathering in front of Sarasbaug to participate in the rally.
