Raj Thackerey Praises BJP

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut remarked that Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray is now supportive of the BJP due to concerns for his son, Amit Thackeray, who is debuting as an MNS candidate from Mahim in the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections. 

Recently Raj expressed hopes for a BJP-MNS alliance and a BJP chief minister post elections, despite previously opposing BJP leaders Narendra Modi and Amit Shah. Raut interpreted this shift as influenced by Raj’s desire to support Amit’s candidacy. 

Although the BJP has backed Amit the election in Mahim remains competitive, involving Shiv Sena (BJP ally) candidate Sadanand Sarvankar and opposition Shiv Sena (UBT)'s Mahesh Sawant. Sarvankar confirmed his participation with the final candidate withdrawal deadline set for November 4. Raj Thackeray’s changing stance has drawn attention as he had once campaigned against the BJP in 2019.