Senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday said the Shiv Sena "softened" its stand on 'love jihad' after it formed a government with the NCP and Congress in Maharashtra last year. He also took potshots at Sena MP Sanjay Raut over his statement questioning the implementation of any "love jihad" legislation in BJP-JD (U)-ruled Bihar.

"The Shiv Sena was once known for strongly protesting against Valentine Day celebrations and beating couples. The Sena used to write critical pieces during 2014 to 2016 against 'love jihad', but its current stand shows how much that party has changed," the former chief minister told reporters. The Sena and the BJP parted ways after Assembly elections in 2019 following the tussle over sharing the post of chief minister of Maharashtra.