Special Correspondent
Mumbai: Amid growing discussions in Maharashtra’s political circles about a potential alliance between Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray’s Shiv Sena and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS), a surprising development has come to light. MNS Chief Raj Thackeray and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reportedly held a secret meeting today at Hotel Taj Lands End in Mumbai, raising questions about whether this meeting could derail the proposed alliance between the Thackeray brothers even before its formal announcement.
This morning, Raj Thackeray arrived at Taj Lands End. Just 20 minutes later, CM Devendra Fadnavis also arrived at the same hotel. Initially, speculation arose as to whether their presence at the same location was merely coincidental. However, as Taj Lands End was not listed in the CM’s official schedule for the day, the timing and location of his visit—following Raj Thackeray’s arrival—have sparked political curiosity. Was this an unplanned detour by Fadnavis aimed at holding crucial talks with Raj Thackeray?
Over the past few days, speculation had been building that Uddhav and Raj Thackeray might reconcile, paving the way for an alliance between the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the MNS. Leaders from both parties, across all levels, were reportedly supportive of the idea. There were strong indications that the brothers might join hands ahead of the Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections, potentially shaking up the political landscape.
However, with Devendra Fadnavis—considered a shrewd strategist with a decade-long dominance in Maharashtra politics—possibly sensing the changing political winds, it is now being speculated that he may have met Raj Thackeray in an effort to pre-empt and disrupt the alliance. Political circles are abuzz with theories about the significance and potential outcomes of this high-level, behind-the-scenes meeting.
