2024 Lok Sabha Elections: Raj Thackeray Discusses Meeting with Amit Shah and Eknath Shinde

The alliance in Maharashtra is still negotiating seat-sharing for the upcoming Lok Sabha election, which will have 48 seats. At a gathering on the occasion of Gudi Padwa, the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Raj Thackeray announced his party’s decision to unconditionally support the alliance of the BJP, the Shiv Sena, and the NCP, citing Narendra Modi’s leadership as the reason. Thackeray emphasized the importance of proper education and employment for the country’s young population and expressed his belief that Narendra Modi is best suited to lead India at this critical juncture. Thackeray indicated that while he has decided to support the alliance for the Lok Sabha polls, it is uncertain whether the MNS will field any candidates.

However, he encouraged his party members to prepare for the Assembly elections later in the year, hinting at his expectation of support and a share of seats in those elections. He pointed out his meeting with Home Minister Amit Shah and claimed to have been the first to suggest Narendra Modi for the Prime Minister’s position. Thackeray also stated that despite his past opposition, he has welcomed positive actions by the government, such as the abrogation of Article 370 and the National Register of Citizens. In response to his estranged cousin Uddhav Thackeray and Shiv Sena leader MP Sanjay Raut’s criticism of Modi, Raj Thackeray took a dig, suggesting that their criticism only arose after they lost power and their party faced internal discord.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed Thackeray’s decision, expressing their gratitude for his support. Shinde praised PM Modi’s development initiatives and expressed gratitude for Thackeray’s support, while Fadnavis thanked him for supporting the alliance and urged everyone to work towards fulfilling the people’s expectations.