Fadnavis-Raj Thackeray meet sparks Mahayuti alliance buzz

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. File Pic/Sayyed Sameer Abedi (right) Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray. Pic/Rane Ashish

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's closed-door meeting is said to have signalled two key developments - a setback to the reunion talks between estranged cousins Raj and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, and the growing possibility of the MNS either forming a tactical understanding with or becoming the newest partner of the Mahayuti coalition in the upcoming crucial civic body polls.

On Thursday, Fadnavis and Raj met at a star-rated hotel in Bandra. Despite the meeting lasting quite a while, both leaders refrained from speaking to the media or issuing any statement, leaving the purpose of their interaction known only to them. However, political circles were abuzz with speculation that the MNS is inching closer to the BJP-led alliance in Maharashtra, especially in the context of local body elections.

During the 2024 general elections, Raj had announced unconditional support to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Later, during the 2024 state Assembly elections, Fadnavis stated that since both parties shared a Hindutva ideology, he was keen on bringing the MNS into the Mahayuti fold. However, seat-sharing discussions fell through due to various factors. Fadnavis had also remarked that the BJP would consider including Raj Thackeray in the municipal elections.

Now, as the two leaders meet just months ahead of the BMC polls, Fadnavis's earlier statements are being revisited, fuelling speculation of a possible alliance, potentially making MNS another Mahayuti partner for the local elections. In fact, Sanjay Shirshat, a minister in the Mahayuti government and a leader from the Shinde Sena camp, told the media, "The MNS should join the Mahayuti for the civic elections."

However, reacting to the development, a senior BJP leader speaking on condition of anonymity claimed that the CM and the MNS chief share a good rapport and could have met solely for the betterment of Maharashtra. On the other hand, the meeting is also being interpreted as a subtle response from Raj to Uddhav and the Marathi ‘janta' regarding the possible reunion of MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT).

Talks of the Thackeray cousins coming together had recently gained momentum, especially with second-rung leaders from both UBT and MNS giving positive signals about a potential alliance. It may be recalled that while Uddhav Thackeray had expressed willingness to set aside differences for the cause of Marathi identity and Maharashtra, he had placed one condition: Raj must not engage with Mahayuti leaders.However, Raj has maintained silence on the issue from the outset.

Nearly one and a half months after talks of a reunion began, Raj met Fadnavis - possibly indicating where his priorities lie. Reacting cautiously to the development, Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders spoke to the media. Former Mumbai Mayor Kishori Pednekar said they were still hopeful of an alliance. "The whole of Maharashtra is watching these developments," she said. Another UBT leader, Sushma Andhare, said, "Raj Thackeray heads his own party and can meet anyone."

Meanwhile, NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Rohit Pawar told television reporters that there was widespread excitement over a potential MNS-UBT alliance. "But now, after this meeting (referring to Fadnavis and Raj), will Raj Thackeray's image suffer?" he asked.