Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Apr 20: In a significant political development, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray have expressed willingness to set aside their long-standing differences to work together in the interest of Maharashtra.

Raj Thackeray, speaking in a podcast with filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar released on Saturday, said, “For me, the interest of Maharashtra is bigger, while everything else is secondary. I can keep aside our minor disputes.” He further added, “I am ready to work with Uddhav, but the only question is whether he too is ready to work with me.”

Responding to Raj’s remarks later the same day, Uddhav Thackeray said he, too, was open to reconciliation if it benefits the Marathi people and protects the interests of the state. However, he advised Raj not to associate with individuals or groups that are “anti-Maharashtra.”

Supporting the possibility of a reunion, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut said, “He (Raj) is a Thackeray, and so is Uddhav. Their relationship is permanent. Political paths may have been different, but Uddhav has always prioritized the welfare of Maharashtra.” Raut also emphasized that Uddhav has no personal dispute with Raj and that any minor differences can be quickly resolved.

Raut further stated that Raj Thackeray must take a firm stand against those who work against Maharashtra’s interests. “We made our stand clear during the Lok Sabha elections that enemies of Maharashtra should not receive any support. If Raj Thackeray is willing to adopt this position, discussions can move forward,” he said.

He also alleged that the BJP is attempting to erase the Thackeray identity from Maharashtra’s political landscape. “If both the Thackerays are showing readiness to unite, Maharashtra will welcome this development,” he added.

Raj Thackeray had parted ways with the undivided Shiv Sena in 2005 and launched the MNS in 2006, following differences within the party founded by his uncle, the late Bal Thackeray.