“Brothers Should Talk, Not Just Talk in Media”: Amit Thackeray on Raj-Uddhav Alliance Buzz

Mumbai: Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader Amit Thackeray on Thursday weighed in on the ongoing speculation surrounding a potential political alliance between his father and MNS chief Raj Thackeray and Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray. He made it clear that alliances aren’t built through public statements alone and urged both leaders to have a direct conversation if they are genuinely interested in joining hands.

Addressing reporters, Amit Thackeray stated, “If there’s a serious intention to come together, it should happen through personal dialogue, not media soundbites. I’ve seen such talks in the past — in 2014, 2017 — but nothing materialized. Both Raj saheb and Uddhav ji know each other well, they have each other’s numbers, and if a reunion is truly on their minds, they should just talk.”

The remarks come amid growing chatter about a possible thaw in the nearly two-decade-old cold war between the two Thackeray cousins. In recent statements, both leaders have shown a willingness to look beyond old disputes. Raj Thackeray recently hinted that “uniting for the sake of Marathi people is not difficult,” while Uddhav Thackeray said he’s ready to “move past petty fights,” provided Maharashtra’s interests are safeguarded.

Amit Thackeray emphasized the importance of a genuine approach rather than political theatrics. “We’ve seen during the COVID-19 crisis that Raj saheb stood by Uddhav ji when he was Chief Minister. So, if there is goodwill, a call can be made. But such decisions should be based on mutual respect, not TV bytes.”

Taking a veiled swipe at Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut, who often comments on alliance matters, Amit said, “Some people talk every morning for headlines… Who are they really trying to fool?”