Uddhav Thackeray sees no ‘Modi wave’, denies tie-up with Raj Thackeray

MUMBAI: Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray doubted the popularity of the “Modi wave” in the state while taking potshots at former ally BJP.

He also rubbished speculations of a post-poll alliance with his estranged cousin and MNS chief Raj Thackeray, which were spurred by the latter receiving a courtesy call from the elder brother to inquire about his health.

The Sena supremo made the statements while interacting with reporters at his residence, Matoshree, in suburban Bandra on the sidelines of a meeting with the Maharashtra Sikh Association.

Raising questions about the “Modi wave,” Mr Uddhav Thackeray said the Prime Minister would not have been invited to address so many rallies in the state — an unprecedented move according to him had the BJP been confident of winning on the effectiveness of the ‘wave’.

“The BJP has speaking about Modi’s plans to hold rallies, but if there was indeed a Modi wave, they would not have found the need for him to address rallies,” he said.

The criticism came in the backdrop of BJP general secretary and Maharashtra in-charge Rajiv Pratap Rudy’s statement on Monday about Mr Modi’s plan to address 24 election meetings in Maharashtra between October 4 and 13.

Meanwhile, workers from the Maharashtra Sikh Association met him to announce their support to his party before the Oct. 15 polls.

Dismissing rumours of a post-poll alliance with Raj Thackeray, the Sena chief said, “I only made him a courtesy call to enquire about his health, but there was no personal meeting.” He said the decision to call back Sena’s lone minister in the Union cabinet, Anant Geete.