MNS says it expects concrete proposal from Shiv Sena (UBT) on alliance after past 'betrayal'

Mumbai: A senior Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader on Thursday said his chief Raj Thackeray would consider an alliance with the Shiv Sena (UBT) only if a concrete proposal is put forward, noting previous overtures from his party for a tie-up were met with "betrayal".

Speaking to reporters here, MNS leader Sandeep Deshpande referred to party president Raj Thackeray's recent interview where he signalled openness to have discussions with the Shiv Sena (UBT), headed by his estranged cousin Uddhav Thackeray, for a political alliance.

Local body elections in Maharashtra, including for civic corporations of Mumbai, Thane, Nashik, Nagpur and Pune, among others, are slated to be held later this year.

"If the Shiv Sena (UBT) feels an alliance with the MNS is possible, they should come forward with a substantial proposal. Raj Thackeray will take a decision on it," he maintained.

Deshpande recalled past instances when the MNS had initiated tie-up talks, but faced what he called "betrayal".

"Be it in 2014 or 2017, we sent proposals but they betrayed us. If they want us now, they must send a proper proposal to Raj Thackeray. He will take an appropriate call," he asserted.

He insisted that Raj Thackeray, in his interview, had not explicitly endorsed a political alliance with the Uddhav-led outfit, a constituent of the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA).

"Raj did not say an alliance must take place. He only said that if the Shiv Sena (UBT) is interested (for a tie-up), he will consider it," Deshpande opined.

In a reply to a question, Deshpande said at present no official communication has been received from the ruling Shiv Sena for an understanding with his party.

He was asked whether the Shiv Sena led by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, a part of the ruling Mahayuti coalition, was also seeking an understanding with the MNS.

Last month, Raj and Uddhav Thackeray sparked speculation about a possible reconciliation with statements indicating they could ignore "trivial issues" and join hands in the larger interest of "Marathi manoos" (Marathi-speaking people), nearly two decades after a bitter parting of ways.

Raj Thackeray quit the undivided Shiv Sena in 2005 and floated his own party the next year. In the past, he has allied with the BJP, a bitter rival of the Shiv Sena (UBT).