Modi’s remark on Uddhav sparks talks of patch-up
MUMBAI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s remarks about inquiring after Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray’s health during his spine surgery and respecting him as Balasaheb’s son have sparked speculation about a possible future rapprochement.
In an interview with TV9 on Thursday, Modi revealed that Thackeray had called him before undergoing surgery in a Mumbai hospital in November 2021. The Prime Minister said he had spoken to Thackeray and later inquired about his health with his wife, Rashmi Thackeray.
“I respect him as Balsaheb’s son. Tomorrow, if he faces any problem, I will be the first person to ring him,” Modi said, emphasising that personal and political relations could be separate and t hat he always admired Sena founder Bal Thackeray.
The remarks have led to speculation about a potential reconciliation between the BJP and Thackeray, particularly as BJP leaders in the state are sceptical about the performance of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena in the ongoing Lok Sabha election.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that Prime Minister Modi had inquired about Thackeray’s health during his surgery.
“There are no personal enemies in politics. There could be political rivals. This is what Modiji has taught us. However, there is no question of us going with Uddhav Thackeray again,” stated the deputy chief minister.
Uddhav Thackeray, however, reacted bitterly, questioning the timing of the appreciation. “When I was unwell and admitted to the hospital, who was involved in the conspiracies against me? Then you pulled down my government and now appreciating me,” he said.
Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut suggested that Prime Minister Modi might be sensing trouble in winning elections and could be sending out feelers. “If they really cared for the Thackerays, they would not have split the party and handed it over to a traitor,” he remarked.
The exchange highlights the complex dynamics between the BJP and the Shiv Sena factions, with personal relationships and political rivalries intertwined. As the Lok Sabha election progresses, the implications of these statements on the political landscape of Maharashtra remain to be seen.