Thackeray faction seeks four weeks from EC to submit papers supporting claims

When the Eknath Shinde-led faction revolted against the party to form a government with the BJP in June, it had written to the EC seeking allocation of the party’s bow and arrow election symbol.

Shiv Sena, Uddhav Thackeray, Election Commission of India, EC, Supreme Court, Maharashtra chief minister, Eknath Shinde, BJP, Maharashtra news, Maharashtra latest, Indian Express

Shiv Sena supporters in front of Matoshree on Monday to show support for Uddhav Thackeray. (Express photo by Amit Chakravarty)

The Shiv Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray on Monday sought four weeks from the Election Commission of India (EC) to submit the documents of support along with their claims and requested the poll body to not pass any orders in this regard till the Supreme Court, which is hearing the matter, passes an order.

When the Eknath Shinde-led faction revolted against the party to form a government with the BJP in June, it had written to the EC seeking allocation of the party’s bow and arrow election symbol. The faction had cited the recognition granted to them in the Lok Sabha and the state Assembly.

History | How bow and arrow came to be Sena symbol

The EC had then asked the two sides to submit documents, including letters of support from the legislative and organisational wings of the party and their written statements by August 8.

“Based on the observations and instructions of the apex court, we have also requested the poll body to not pass any decision on the plea of Shinde faction till the SC gives its decision,” said a senior Shiv Sena leader.

During the last hearing, the apex court had told the EC that if the Thackeray faction seeks more time to submit its response to its notice on the Shinde faction’s plea, it should consider granting reasonable adjournment. The SC had also told Senior Advocate Arvind Datar, who was appearing for the EC, that while EC can receive affidavits etc, it should not precipitate matters till the court takes a decision on the issue of referring it to a Constitution Bench.

Addressing party workers at Matoshree, Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray on Monday urged them to focus on increasing party membership which would be crucial when the matter comes up before the EC.

Yuva Sena chief and MLA Aaditya Thackeray has cancelled the third leg of Shiv Sanvad Yatra owing to ill-health.

Vallabh Ozarkar

Vallabh Ozarkar is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express' Mumbai bureau, recognized as an authoritative and deeply knowledgeable voice on the politics, governance, and infrastructure of Maharashtra. With approximately seven years of experience in major news organizations, his reporting delivers high standards of Expertise and Trustworthiness. Expertise & Authority Current Role: Senior Correspondent, The Indian Express, Mumbai bureau. Geographical Specialization: Provides exclusive and detailed coverage of Maharashtra politics and governance, operating at the epicenter of the state's decision-making in Mumbai. Core Authority: His reporting demonstrates deep Expertise across critical and often complex state matters, including: Political Dynamics: In-depth analysis of the ruling coalition (Mahayuti) and opposition (MVA), internal party conflicts, and crucial election updates, including local body polls and municipal corporation tussles. Governance & Policy: Focused coverage on significant state policies, such as the overhaul of Mumbai's 'pagdi system' (rent control for old buildings) and social welfare schemes (e.g., Ladki Bahin Yojana accountability). Infrastructure & Development: Reports on major urban and regional infrastructure projects, including the Mumbai Water Metro, Uttan-Virar Sea Link, and Thane Metro development. Administrative Oversight: Follows legislative actions, cabinet decisions, and reports on issues of accountability and alleged fraud within state departments. Experience Current Role: His role at The Indian Express—a leading national daily—validates the credibility and standard of his reporting. Career Foundation: Prior to The Indian Express, Vallabh contributed to other major metropolitan news outlets, including the Mumbai Mirror and DNA - Daily News & Analysis, providing a solid foundation in rigorous urban and political journalism. Evidence of Impact: His work consistently breaks down complex political developments and administrative failures, such as exposing discrepancies in government welfare schemes, cementing his reputation as a trusted source for ground-level, impactful news from Maharashtra. He tweets @Ozarkarvallabh ... Read More

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