Uddhav, Raj should join hands

Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray’s demise has revived demands from Sena and Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) members that the “warring” Thackeray cousins — Uddhav and Raj — bury their differences and join hands on the political front.

“After Balasaheb’s death, the Marathi manoos feels orphaned and insecure. Now, the estranged cousins must unite for this common cause,” said a Shiv Sena party member.

But if the cousins come together, they will do so only after the Lok Sabha polls depending on the numbers they can garner, he said.

“They will test each other’s strength as these will be the first polls to be held without Balasaheb… this will help them judge their bargaining power,” the Sena member added.

A MNS legislator, too, said that any alignment between the two cousins would be determined in the coming months.

“Everyone wants to come to power [and the two cousins coming together increases these chances].

“However, it seems far-fetched now to say that the Sena and the MNS will merge. Both have created various rungs of leadership in their respective parties. In case of a merger, how will these be adjusted?” asked a MNS functionary.

“But a pre-poll adjustment or post-poll alliance may be possible,” the MNS leader said.