Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray launched a strong attack on his rival Eknath Shinde, calling him a "traitor who won't change", after the Election Commission today allowed Team Shinde to keep the Shiv Sena name and the party's bow and arrow symbol.
The Election Commission's decision comes nearly eight months after Mr Shinde, the current Chief Minister, revolted with over 40 Sena MLAs and wrested control of the party from Mr Thackeray's alliance government with the Congress and the Nationalist Congress Party.
"They have stolen the Shiv Sena symbol. We will keep fighting and won't lose hope. For now, let Shinde be happy with his theft. Once a traitor, always a traitor," Mr Thackeray said.