The recent meeting between Raj Thackeray and Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi has sparked speculation about the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) joining the BJP-led 'Mahayuti' alliance in Maharashtra. This move has led to questions regarding the BJP's interest in incorporating the MNS, despite its relatively minor political presence in the state, especially compared to larger parties like the Shiv Sena and NCP.
Political analysts have pointed out several reasons why the BJP might be considering the inclusion of the MNS into the NDA:
1. **Concerns Over Uddhav Thackeray**: The BJP is reportedly wary of the potential impact of Uddhav Thackeray and the Congress alliance in Mumbai and surrounding areas. With Uddhav Thackeray's faction riding on a perceived sympathy wave, the BJP aims to counter this by bringing influential leaders like Raj Thackeray into the NDA fold.
2. **Focus on Mumbai and Surrounding Areas**: The BJP is eyeing the uncertain "floating votes" in Mumbai and its vicinity, as indicated by the India Today's Mood of the Nation survey. By aligning with Raj Thackeray and potentially fielding MNS candidates in strategic constituencies, the BJP hopes to sway these undecided voters in their favor.
3. **Targeting Core Marathi Voters**: Despite the split with the Shiv Sena, the BJP believes that the Sena's core Marathi voter base still supports Uddhav Thackeray. By collaborating with Raj Thackeray, who also appeals to Marathi sentiments, the BJP aims to attract some of these voters towards the NDA alliance.
4. **Revival of MNS's Electoral Fortunes**: Joining the NDA could be seen as a strategic move for Raj Thackeray to revitalize the declining fortunes of the MNS. With the party's limited electoral success in recent years, aligning with the BJP-led alliance could provide the MNS with a platform for resurgence.
5. **Capitalizing on Hindutva Appeal**: Raj Thackeray sees an opportunity to capitalize on the 'Hindutva' turf that the Shiv Sena has seemingly softened on after forming an alliance with the Congress. By positioning himself as a proponent of Hindutva values and aligning with the BJP, Raj Thackeray aims to bolster his party's presence and vote share in Maharashtra.
In summary, the potential alliance between the BJP and MNS reflects the BJP's strategic efforts to consolidate support in Maharashtra, particularly in Mumbai and surrounding areas, by leveraging Raj Thackeray's political influence and appealing to core Marathi voters.
