Minister Sanjay Shirsat from the Maharashtra government shared on Saturday his willingness to mediate reconciliation between his party and the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT). However, he emphasized the importance of uniting hearts first. During an interview with a channel, Shirsat expressed his sadness over the split in the Shiv Sena, originally founded by Bal Thackeray, now under the leadership of Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
According to a news agency report, Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Shirsat mentioned that he and several of his party members maintain cordial ties with Sena (UBT) leaders.
'Mending Relationships Later Will Be Hard'
When asked if he was willing to attempt reconciliation if given a chance, Shirsat said, 'I would like to unite, but it's vital for hearts to connect first.' The minister noted that leaders from both groups still meet warmly. Shirsat warned that if the widening gap isn't bridged now, improving relations later would be challenging.
The Party Split in 2022
Shirsat addressed the attacks from Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders, stating, 'We can forgive each other's mistakes. It's not possible to come together while insulting each other.' The original Shiv Sena, under Uddhav Thackeray's control at the time, split in June 2022.
Indeed, Eknath Shinde, along with party supporters, aligned with the BJP to become Maharashtra's Chief Minister. Following this, he secured the party name and its 'bow and arrow' symbol. Since the division, the two Sena factions have been in constant conflict.
The Great Alliance Wins Assembly Elections
In last year's assembly elections, the BJP-led Mahayuti coalition partner, Shinde's Sena, secured 57 out of 288 state seats. In contrast, under the Maha Vikas Aghadi, the Sena (UBT) collaborating with Congress and NCP (SP) managed only 20 seats. Overall, Mahayuti won 230 seats, while MVA secured just 46.
