Ahead of the Lok Sabha elections, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday said that BJP and MNS stands are "not different". Fadnavis said BJP aligns with MNS's "extensive stand on regional pride and the protection of 'Marathi manush' rights in the state". Highlighting a common ground between MNS and BJP, Fadnavis said, "As far as elections are concerned, it is a matter of discussion. Right decisions are taken at the right time".
Discussing the ongoing seat allocation discussions in Delhi, Fadnavis stated that 80% of the issues have been resolved positively, with negotiations ongoing for the remaining 20%. He expressed confidence in resolving all issues and forming a "strong alliance".
BJP's 'Right Decision At Right Time' Take On Alliance With MNS Continues:
Earlier, Mumbai BJP chief Ashish Shelar’s meeting with MNS president Raj Thackeray sparked speculation about a potential poll tie-up between the two parties.
Responding to queries, Shelar stated, “Raj Thackeray and I have been friends for a long time. We also meet and discuss some other topics. We will reveal certain details at the right time”.
There have been speculations in political circles that BJP might join hands with MNS to divide Marathi votes, potentially impacting the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena in Mumbai. A delegation of MNS leaders recently met state deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis.
“Both parties (BJP and MNS) are friendly but no discussion on an alliance had taken place. The (political) picture will become clear in the coming days and well ahead of the Lok Sabha elections,” Fadnavis commented.
MNS Chief Raj Thackery Visited Nashik:
In a related development, Chief of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) Raj Thackeray visited Kalaram Temple in Nashik city, ahead of the party’s 18th foundation day celebrations on March 9. Accompanied by his son Amit and daughter-in-law Mitali, Raj performed rituals at the temple in the morning, underlining his deep connection with Nashik.
The visit comes amidst requests from the Nashik unit of MNS to contest the Nashik Lok Sabha seat in the upcoming general elections, likely in April. Banners across the city with the message ‘fight to win’ indicate the party's intention to contest the polls.
Raj Thackeray founded MNS in 2006 following differences with Shiv Sena. In the 2009 assembly elections, MNS secured 13 seats, primarily in Mumbai, impacting the Marathi vote dynamics and affecting Shiv Sena's performance in the Lok Sabha elections.
However, over the years, MNS lost its political momentum and was relegated to the sidelines in Maharashtra politics.