Speculations are rife about a reconciliation between Shiv Sena (UBT) Chief Uddhav Thackeray and MNS leader Raj Thackeray in Maharashtra. Amidst this, state minister and BJP leader Nitesh Rane took a jibe at Uddhav Thackeray on Sunday, asking if the Shiv Sena leader consulted his wife Rashmi Thackeray before reacting to Raj Thackeray's statement, which sparked rumors of a coalition between the cousins.
'Party Exit Orchestrated by Rashmi'
In recent days, Raj and Uddhav have fueled rumors of a potential reconciliation, hinting at a collaboration that overlooks minor issues for the greater good of Maharashtra and the Marathi people.
According to PTI, Nitesh Rane mentioned in a podcast that Uddhav Thackeray should be asked if he sought Rashmi Thackeray's permission before possibly collaborating with MNS, as her opinion is highly influential in such decisions. The minister also alleged that it was Rashmi Thackeray who played a key role in ousting Raj Thackeray from Shiv Sena, although there wasn't any major disagreement between the cousins at that time.
Nitesh Rane claimed that Rashmi Thackeray had more issues with Raj Thackeray than vice versa. He insisted that Uddhav must get his wife's approval before re-aligning with Raj Thackeray. He furthered that anyone familiar with Shiv Sena's internal matters wouldn't deny this, and he is ready to challenge Uddhav Thackeray on it.
Uddhav Sets Conditions for Raj
Rane remarked on the prospects of Shiv Sena (UBT) and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena partnering, stating that the BJP-led mega alliance has already achieved a significant victory in Maharashtra. Therefore, any coalition between them does not worry us.
Indeed, in a podcast with Mahesh Manjrekar, Raj Thackeray made a remark indicating that these disputes look small compared to Maharashtra's survival, and coming together isn't difficult, but it's a matter of will. Following this, Uddhav Thackeray suggested moving past differences, indicating potential collaboration with Raj Thackeray under certain conditions.
'No Talks on Coalition for Now'
He expressed that although they are ready to resolve minor spats, Uddhav has laid down certain conditions to Raj Thackeray. He mentioned that anyone working against Maharashtra's interests would not be entertained. Further, he is set to eliminate useless disputes for the benefit of Marathi inhabitants and Maharashtra. He appealed for the unity of all Marathi people in Maharashtra's interest.
However, regarding the possibility of the brothers uniting, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut commented that discussions about coalition are yet to happen, highlighting instead the emotional connect. He said Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray are brothers, with deep-seated ties and friendship that have never faltered, even after years of collaboration.
