'We are capable of...': Uddhav Thackeray on political future with brother Raj

In Mumbai, Uddhav and Raj Thackeray shared a platform – their first in nearly two decades. (File photo/ANI)

Weeks after the family's reunion on a public stage, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday commented on the political future with cousin Raj Thackeray's MNS party and said any decision about joining hands would be taken only by him and his cousin.

Speaking to reporters in Delhi during his two-day visit for the INDIA bloc meeting, the former Maharashtra chief minister said, “We are capable of making our own decisions. Whatever we have to do, we will do. There is no need for any third person.”

The comments have added fuel to the ongoing speculation about a Sena UBT-MNS alliance ahead of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections.

This comes weeks after Uddhav and Raj Thackeray shared a platform – their first in nearly two decades – where both leaders targeted the BJP-led governments at the Centre and in Maharashtra, particularly over issues related to the Marathi language.

The INDIA bloc meeting is being held at Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s residence. It’s the first face-to-face strategy session post the Lok Sabha results.

Uddhav Thackeray, who arrived in Delhi on Wednesday, met NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar on Day 1 of his visit. The two leaders reportedly discussed the future roadmap for Maharashtra and the role of the INDIA bloc ahead of upcoming civic elections.