Sena to clear its stand today

Mumbai: Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray may yet again announce that the party will contest the 2019 elections solo on the occasion of its 52nd anniversary on Tuesday. BJP President Amit Shah had recently made an alliance proposal to the Sena during his visit to the city but Mr Thackeray refused to accept it. Mr Thackeray will clear his stand on the alliance proposal on the occasion of the party’s anniversary.

After the grand victory in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP broke the 25-year alliance with the Sena before the Assembly elections and it could not get a majority despite emerging as the single largest party. And now, BJP is desperately trying to woo Sena for an alliance, trying to show that the latter is adamant.  

During the recent meeting between Mr Shah and Mr Thackeray, many issues were discussed, including seat-sharing. While the BJP is ready for a 50:50 seat sharing formula, the Sena wants more seats in the Assembly, even as the BJP is unwilling to part with seats of sitting MPs and MLAs. Sources said that the BJP’s strategy is to keep the Sena engaged in dialogue.

When asked aboth the declaration plans Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Raut said, “Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will soon clear the  party’s stand about alliance in the upcoming elections as well as on many other issues. Political leaders are eager to know about his views. I can’t speak more on this.”

Knowing the BJP’s plans, the Sena has not been responsive. On the occasion of the 52nd anniversary of the party, Mr Thackeray is expected to clear the party’s stand on the alliance with the BJP. Sources said that he is likely to ask party workers to go ahead with preparations to fight solo as declared earlier. Mr Thackeray is also expected to review the party’s 52-year-long journey and the milestones achieved along the way. He is expected to speak about the party’s contribution to the state and the nation.