In a shocking development yesterday, the Election commission of India allotted the symbol of Shivsena: bow and arrow to Eknath Shinde. The decision was announced by the Election commission on Friday evening, almost eight months after the coup Shivsena by Eknath Shinde that led to vertical split in party and subsequent collapse of the MVA govt. The decision of the ECI is a huge setback for Uddhav Thackeray. Not only the symbol but ECi also cleared the name of the party in favour of Eknath Shinde. The ECI had earlier allotted different names and symbols to both shivsena factions. Shivsena UBT for Uddhav Thackeray group and symbol of Mashaal and the name Balasahebanchi Shivsena+ symbol of Dhaal and Swords to Eknath Shinde. However, in a major jolt to Uddhav Thackeray, the symbol and party name has been given to Eknath Shinde effectively given him the control of Shivsena the party.
It must be noted that this matter is subjudice and a batch of petitions, challenging disqualifications, speaker's decisions etc are being heard by the court. the next date of the hearing is 21st of February. However, Uddhav Thackeray said that he will approach SC against the ECI's latest order as well.
However, today let's talk about the Election commission order. The order raised many eyebrows in political and legal circles. As It will act as a precedence in similar cases in the future impacting political parties.
In a 78 page order, the election commission has explained the rationale behind this decision. In our new segment, Opinion, our Managing Editor Mr Sujit Nair shares his views on the matter.

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