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On this Special Report, India Today's Mustafa Shaikh discusses the historic reunion of the Thackeray brothers ahead of the BMC polls. The Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) have announced a new alliance, prioritising the 'Marathi Manush' and the welfare of Maharashtra. Mustafa Shaikh notes that while the seat-sharing formula is yet to be decided, both parties have committed to fighting all seats together without 'friendly fights'. The programme explores the challenges for the opposition and the political dynamics as the Congress decides to fight alone.

A transcript outlines a press conference regarding a significant political alliance in Maharashtra, reportedly taking place on December 24. The text describes two prominent leaders, referred to as the 'Dhakre brothers', joining forces after 20 years to contest the upcoming BMC polls. Key topics include the strategic division of seats, which one speaker dismisses as 'immaterial' compared to the broader goal, and the ideological focus on the 'Marathi Manus'. The discussion highlights a resolve to ensure Mumbai remains integral to Maharashtra, countering alleged attempts to separate it. The speakers also seek blessings from late leaders before addressing the media about their vision for the state's civic elections.

In a major political development, the Thackeray brothers, Uddhav and Raj, have announced a historic alliance for the upcoming BMC elections. Marking a new chapter after 20 years of separation, the leaders visited the memorial of late Balasaheb Thackeray to seek blessings before the formal announcement. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, who accompanied the duo, stated, 'Today is an important day for the people of Marathi.' The alliance aims to consolidate the Marathi vote bank and challenge the BJP's dominance following recent civic poll results. The report highlights the ideological battle of Hindutva versus Marathi Manoos and the strategy to counter the Mahayuti's influence in the state. The reunion is seen as a crucial step for the opposition's revival in Maharashtra.

On this Special Report, India Today’s Mustafa Sheikh analyses the split in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) ahead of the Mumbai civic polls. Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Anand Dubey has lashed out at the Congress, stating, ‘Congress is only a tourist in Mumbai’ and a ‘non entity’. The report highlights the reunion of the ‘Thackeray brothers’, Uddhav and Raj, as they join forces for the BMC battle. Sheikh explains that the Congress is opting to fight solo to preserve its national party status and avoid the uncomfortable alliance with the pro-Marathi MNS.