In a startling political development just days before the Lok Sabha election results, Maharashtra MLA Ravi Rana has ignited a controversy by asserting that Uddhav Thackeray is poised to rejoin the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) if it retains power at the Centre for a third consecutive term. The results of the Lok Sabha polls are slated to be announced on June 4.

Ravi Rana, known for his provocative predictions, declared on Sunday, “Uddhav Thackeray is set to join PM Modi’s government within 20 days after the swearing-in ceremony of the NDA.” He emphasized his confidence by referencing his accurate forecasts of Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar’s departures from Shiv Sena and NCP, respectively. “I know, this time as well, I will be right,” Rana asserted.

The MLA further elaborated that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has always left the door open for Uddhav Thackeray, acknowledging his lineage as the son of Balasaheb Thackeray. “The Prime Minister had said that a window is always open for Uddhav Thackeray as he is Balasaheb Thackeray’s son. I am sure that Uddhav will use this window to come back to BJP,” Rana noted.

This claim gains significance against the backdrop of Uddhav Thackeray’s current alliance with the Opposition-led INDIA bloc. However, speculations were stirred recently when Prime Minister Modi extended an olive branch to Thackeray during a news channel interview. “I can never forget the love and affection of Balasaheb Thackeray towards me,” Modi remarked when asked about Uddhav Thackeray’s political future. Modi expressed gratitude towards Balasaheb and added that he would always support Uddhav in times of trouble.

Responding to Modi’s comments, Uddhav Thackeray maintained a defiant stance, saying, “Even if the doors are open, do whatever you want. I will not come to you. And there will be no need to come back to you because you will not be there (in power).”

This political drama is compounded by the BJP’s strategic maneuver in 2022, which led to a split in Shiv Sena and the subsequent collapse of Thackeray’s government in Maharashtra. The fallout resulted in rebel Sena leader Eknath Shinde ascending to the position of Chief Minister.