Uddhav Thackerays Flight Encounter Sparks Political Speculation in Maharashtra

June 27, 2026

Mumbai, June 27: Political tensions in Maharashtra have escalated following a coincidental flight encounter between Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Minister Uday Samant stated that no third party can come between Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis.

On Friday, Uddhav Thackeray was traveling from Mumbai to Nagpur with his son Aditya Thackeray, senior leader Sanjay Raut, and Anil Desai. Interestingly, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was also on the same commercial flight. This unexpected meeting of political rivals has sparked various discussions in Maharashtra’s political landscape.

In light of these discussions, Minister Uday Samant emphasized Maharashtra’s culture, stating that the coordination between Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is excellent. He asserted that no third party can disrupt their relationship, highlighting both leaders as mature politicians.

Samant also responded to a statement made by Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut, noting that the party’s decline from 100 to 20 seats and from 9 to 3 MPs over the past four years speaks volumes. He remarked that while Raut may continue to speak, they will move forward under Eknath Shinde’s leadership.

Additionally, he discussed the MSME Summit and Award Show held in Navi Mumbai, aimed at promoting small, micro, and medium enterprises and honoring entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to the sector.

Samant took a jab at Uddhav Thackeray, reminding him that in 2019, the public had given a majority to both Shiv Sena and BJP, but Thackeray later allied with Congress. He suggested that Thackeray should have apologized for that decision.

On the cancellation of the TET exam, he mentioned that certain flaws necessitated the decision, but assured that the exam would be conducted soon.

Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray commented to the media, stating, “We had a high-level discussion with the Chief Minister during the flight. The details of our meeting on Friday and the decisions made will become clear in the coming days.”