“Navigating the Two Faces of Sena”: Sena vs Sena: Which is the real ?

Mumbai’s political landscape presents a bewildering scene of two Senas, each bearing the iconic orange flags and the legacy of Balasaheb Thackeray. Yet, beneath this façade of uniformity lies a stark contrast in ideologies and allegiances, raising the question: which Sena truly embodies the spirit of Maharashtra?

In the bustling neighbourhoods of Irla and Versova, rallies adorned with orange flags and images of Balasaheb Thackeray weave through the streets, drawing crowds with divergent messages. One rally rallies in Favor of Modi, championing Hindutva, while the other stands for a secular India, opposing the incumbent Prime Minister.

This duality stems from a bitter split within the Shiv Sena in July 2022, dividing loyalties and confusing voters as they prepare to cast their ballots in the upcoming general election. At the helm of one faction is Eknath Shinde, endorsed by the BJP as the rightful heir to the “real Shiv Sena.” Conversely, Bal Thackeray’s son, Uddhav, leads the other faction, clinging to his father’s legacy amidst the fray.

As the election fervour intensifies, the battleground shifts to constituencies like Mumbai Northwest and Thane, where candidates from both Senas navigate murky waters of controversy and scrutiny. In Mumbai Northwest, the Specter of alleged financial misconduct haunts candidates from both factions, casting shadows of doubt over their integrity. Yet, amidst the tumult, voices emerge from the electorate, echoing sentiments of faith and disillusionment.

For some, allegiance to Eknath Shinde’s Sena is synonymous with unwavering support for Modi and the BJP, fuelled by narratives of development and religious identity. Others, however, gravitate towards Uddhav’s Sena, drawn by promises of inclusivity and social justice, even as they grapple with memories of past grievances.

In Thane, a stronghold of the Shiv Sena, echoes of Anand Dighe’s legacy resonate through the streets, shaping loyalties and shaping the narrative of the election. Eknath Shinde’s ascent to power is seen as a continuation of Dighe’s vision, a beacon of Hindutva in a changing political landscape. Yet, Uddhav’s Sena refuses to be overshadowed, rallying supporters with promises of progress and renewal.

As voters weigh their choices, grappling with the complexities of identity and ideology, the future of Maharashtra hangs in the balance. Whether it’s the allure of Modi’s Hindutva or the promise of a more inclusive Sena, each vote casts a ripple in the turbulent waters of Mumbai’s political arena. Ultimately, amidst the clamor of rallies and the rhetoric of campaigns, the real Sena will emerge victorious, shaped by the will of the people it seeks to serve.

The last phases of voting in Maharashtra will be held on May 20. Maharashtra has the second-highest number of Lok Sabha (lower house of the Indian parliament) seats. The results, like the rest of the country, will be announced on June 4. Out of the 543 seats for which the election will be conducted this year, Maharashtra has 48, the second-highest after Uttar Pradesh which has 80.