MUMBAI: Speculation began afresh on Saturday about a possible reconciliation between Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray after both indicated they were willing to mend fences.
In an interview with film director Mahesh Manjrekar, Raj expressed openness to joining forces for the state’s good but said this requires willingness from both sides. Uddhav, speaking to his supporters, said, without naming Raj, that before any talk of unity for Maharashtra’s sake, there should be a commitment not to support or campaign for BJP, as was done in the past. Raj had supported PM Modi during the Lok Sabha polls.
Raj said, “The dispute between us is trivial in view of the issue of identity of the state and Marathi manoos, so coming together for that is not a difficult task. But both sides need to wish for it.” Uddhav said, “I’m also ready to keep this small issue aside…During LS polls, they (BJP) were taking business to Gujarat…we were raising those issues. Then support, now oppose and again support…it shouldn’t be like that. For state’s interest, swear not to sit with them.”
CM Devendra Fadnavis said there is no need to read too much between the lines. DCM Ajit Pawar said it is a family issue and others should not “poke their nose into” it. NCP (SP)’s Supriya Sule said, “We will welcome their reunion.”
