Election Commission of India (ECI), in its final order relating to dispute between Shiv Sena factions led by Eknath Shinde and Uddhavji Thackeray (son of Late Bal Thackeray, the founder of the party) has granted the original party name “Shiv Sena” and the original party symbol “Bow and Arrow” to the petitioner Eknath Shinde.
This comes as big setback to Udhav Thackerey, who as son of the legendary founder of the party had claimed to be the natural successor of the legacy of Bal Thackeray.
On 29 June 2022, Uddhav Thackeray had resigned from the post of Chief Minister of Maharashtra following a court order to prove his majority. Eknath Shinde was sworn in as the new Chief Minister next day. The political crisis led to split in Shiv Sena – supporters of Eknath Shinde formed Balasahebanchi Shiv Sena, while Thackeray loyalists forming Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray). Neither faction was designated as the successor of the original party as an interim measure.
The final order of the Commission delivered today has upheld Eknath Shinde faction to be the legal successor of the party and has allowed them to use original party name and symbol of Shiv Sena.
This order is a big setback also to the idea of dynastic succession in political arena and selection of a political leader by virtue of blood line.
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Commission’s Final Order dated 17.02.2023 in Dispute between Eknathrao Sambhaji Shinde (Petitioner) and Uddhavji Thackeray (Respondent) in Dispute Case No. I of 2022. https://eci.gov.in/files/file/14826-commissions-final-order-dated-17022023-in-dispute-case-no-1-of-2022-shivsena/
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