Raj Thackeray declares MNS’ support for Modi and BJP, despite previous opposition

MNS’ support for Modi

Raj Thackeray, chief of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena, has announced his backing for the BJP-led alliance in the next parliamentary elections, emphasizing his support for Narendra Modi and the country’s progress. He believes this election will be crucial for determining the nation’s direction.

Thackeray declared his support amidst a large gathering of his party’s supporters in Mumbai’s Shivaji Park during the Gudi Padwa festival. He suggested that his party might skip the parliamentary elections but encouraged his followers to get ready for the state elections in October.

Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis recently stated his belief that Thackeray would join the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and endorse Prime Minister Modi. Notably, Thackeray had previously campaigned against the BJP in the 2019 parliamentary elections.

In a recent speech, Thackeray also commented on his cousin, Uddhav Thackeray, leader of the Shiv Sena UBT, noting that he has consistently recognized the BJP’s positive actions without resorting to personal attacks, unlike Sanjay Raut and Uddhav Thackeray. He emphasized that his critiques have always been focused on issues and that he stands by his past statements regarding his new allies.

Thackeray disclosed that he had been approached by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis but sought clarity. After discussions with Amit Shah, the senior BJP leader and Home Minister, as well as further talks with Shinde and Fadnavis, he decided to offer his support.

He clarified that he has no interest in negotiating for political positions and intends to remain the leader of his own party, MNS, which he established after leaving Shiv Sena about twenty years ago with a focus on local job opportunities.

Thackeray’s MNS gained significant ground in 2009, winning 13 assembly seats, but saw a decline in subsequent elections, securing only one seat in 2014 out of 232 contested. Despite not contesting, Thackeray campaigned against BJP leaders Narendra Modi and Amit Shah in the 2019 parliamentary elections. That same year, he faced an inquiry by the Enforcement Directorate just before the assembly elections, where his party again won a single seat. Nevertheless, MNS candidates have historically garnered a substantial vote share in several constituencies.

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