Mumbai to witness 'Sena vs Sena' showdown amid Dussehra rallies
For the first time in 56 years, Mumbai is all set to witness two Shiv Sena Dussehra rallies as friends-turned-foes Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde fight to prove their respective factions the 'real' Sena. A historic tradition in Mumbai, Shiv Sena has been holding fiery rallies every Dussehra since its inception in 1966. Mumbai Police have increased security at both venues.
Why does this story matter?
A political storm shook former CM Thackeray's government in June this year after a rebellion by his most loyal commander, Shinde. The latter took over 40 MLAs and allied with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to form a new government. Both factions now stake claim to be called the 'real' Sena and the true follower of founder Bal Thackeray's legacy.
Blistering duel expected in Mumbai
Shinde camp will be hosting their Dussehra rally at Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC), while Uddhav Thackeray will be holding his at Shivaji Park- both located about six kilometers apart. Security officials are expecting huge turnouts at the rallies. Both the leaders are expected to start their fiery speeches around 8:45 pm and will address the crowds for at least an hour.
Thackeray camp supporters arrive at Shivaji Park
A first for Sena's history
Bal Thackeray addressed Dussehra rallies in Mumbai year after year until his death in 2012. His son Uddhav then took over the mantle. He will be hosting the rally at the historic Shivaji Park, a venue important for Sena since its founding years. Shinde will be hosting the rally at MMRDA grounds in BKC, which is located close to the Thackeray family home 'Matoshree.'
Cars, buses, and trains to bring in supporters
Both Sena factions have reportedly arranged for more than 5,000 buses, tourist vehicles, and even a train to ferry supporters to the rally grounds. About 4 lakh people are likely to arrive at the MMRDA grounds. However, Shivaji Park, due to space constraints, may have 60,000 people. Shinde camp has also booked a train to bring supporters from different parts of Maharashtra.
Shinde camp supporters arrive at MMRDA grounds
What will the rival leaders say?
According to reports, the speeches may dwell on Hindutva, dynastic succession, governance, and betrayal. CM Shinde may talk about the "shortcomings" of the previous regime, Balasaheb's ideology, and Uddhav "deviating" from the path of Hindutva to ally with Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Meanwhile, Thackeray might attack Shinde for joining hands with the BJP.
Here's more about the security arrangements
According to PTI, the Mumbai Police will station 3,200 officers, 15,000 personnel, 1,000 Home Guard jawans, 1,500 State Reserve Police Force personnel, and 15 bomb detection squads at both rallies. Atleast 2,000 Mumbai Traffic Police personnel will be stationed at BKC. About 700 buses will arrive at Shivaji Park, while 4,000 cabs will ferry Shinde supporters to MMRDA grounds.
