Will Uddhav And Raj Thackeray Shake Hands?

Maharashtra’s political scene is abuzz with renewed discussion on the possibility of the two Thackeray cousins coming together. After MNS leader Raj Thackeray gave such an indication, he received a positive response from Uddhav. Both have said that the interests of Maharashtra are paramount and not any personal grouses. Raj sent out this feeler in an informal TV chat with producer actor Mahesh Manjrekar two days ago. Within hours, Uddhav also responded by claiming that there was no quarrel as such. The discussion has been revised in view of the coming Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation election since it will determine the fate of the Shiv Sena under Uddhav as well as MNS led by Raj. In the recent assembly election, both Senas had performed dismally, creating a question mark about their future. Several top leaders from the Sena (UBT) have joined either the BJP or the Shiv Sena led by deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde after the assembly election. If and when the two Thackeray cousins come together, a formidable pro-Marathi political combination can emerge, in Mumbai-Thane belt at least. Over the past week, Raj has spearheaded a campaign to oppose teaching of Hindi in primary schools in the state. Afterwards, the Sena (UBT) also joined the chorus. Hence Sainiks from both the Senas are awaiting any specific signal. Senior leaders from both sides argue that there should not be any problem in uniting on the issue of Maharashtra’s interests. This has revived the shake hand talk.