Sanjay Raut Announces Successful Conclusion of Seat-Sharing Talks with NCP (SP)

Mumbai, 19th October 2024: Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut stated on Saturday that discussions regarding seat-sharing between his party and the Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) have successfully concluded, attributing this progress to both parties’ commitment to resolving their issues.

His comments seem to target the Congress, the third partner in the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, following his expressed frustration over delays in seat-sharing negotiations and his criticism of Maharashtra Congress leaders for their indecisiveness.

In a conversation with reporters, Raut noted that regional parties are increasingly shaping national politics and emphasized that these parties should have representation in their respective states.

He mentioned that Narendra Modi ascended to the Prime Ministership with the backing of regional parties such as the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and the Janata Dal (United) (JD-U), highlighting the significant presence of regional parties within the INDIA bloc.

Raut also revealed that Akhilesh Yadav, the president of the Samajwadi Party, had a productive conversation with Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray.

“We (Sena UBT) engaged in discussions with the NCP (SP) throughout the day on Friday. Jayant Patil, the state president of NCP (SP), and I addressed various issues, most of which are being resolved. Ultimately, it requires the willingness and mindset to address these concerns, which both parties possess,” Raut remarked.

He added, “The seat-sharing arrangement between Sena (UBT) and NCP (SP) is finalized. Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray are personally overseeing the process as our leadership is based in Mumbai.”

In light of ongoing tensions over seat-sharing among the three MVA parties, Uddhav Thackeray warned on Friday that disputes among allies, particularly involving Congress, should not escalate to a breaking point.