Uddhav Thackeray – The last Tiger?

Biplob Ghosal

After Bal Thackeray's death, the Shiv Sena for the first time in its history will be contesting the crucial upcoming General Elections under the leadership of Uddhav Thackeray. The polls will be a litmus test for the Shiv Sena president as the party's popularity has been in decline in the last few years. The 'Sainiks' are looking upto Uddhav to revive the fortunes of the party after its dismal performance in the 2009 Lok Sabha polls and the Assembly elections.

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief and Uddhav's cousin, Raj Thackeray, poses a big threat to the Shiv Sena as he is expected to eat into the Maratha vote bank – the loyal support base of the Shiv Sena.

Other than the MNS factor, another hurdle, which Uddhav faces is the Narendra Modi-led BJP which is fast gaining popularity in Maharashtra. Recent pre poll surveys have indicated that the principle Opposition party may win around 15 seats. Maharashtra send 42 MPs to the Lok Sabha. Though, Shiv Sena is the oldest ally of the BJP-led NDA, it finds itself in a tight spot after Raj Thackeray announced support to Modi's PM candidature.

However, Uddhav, who is known to be soft and not so suave as his father, tackled the political situation very efficiently. The Shiv Sena president’s open criticism of BJP and threatening to go alone in the parliamentary elections was an clear indication that Uddhav is not naïve in politics.

Ever since taking over the reins of his party, Uddhav has made efforts to change Shiv Sena's image. The Shiv Sena boss has also carefully treaded the party in the recent years and given the young faces key posts in the party.

Uddhav, who is compared to his father Bal Thackeray's charisma will have to win big in the Elections 2014 and the Assembly polls scheduled next year to prove his mettle.