MNS Chief Raj Thackeray stresses need for constructive Opposition, reaches out to ruling dispensation

Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray on Friday, February 20, 2026, alleged that the “politics of doubt” was detrimental to democracy, emphasizing the need for a constructive Opposition that interacts with the government on issues of public interest.

Defending his recent meeting with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Mr Thackeray said: “Maharashtra had a healthy political culture. After the elections, everyone used to meet and talk to each other. That is over. Everything is now viewed with disdain. This will not work.”

The MNS chief, who met the Shiv Sena leader a day ago, said this support was purely out of civic concerns and not political realignment. He submitted a memorandum highlighting pressing problems in Mumbai, which he claimed had been forwarded to the authorities.

Expanding on his vision of a Responsible Opposition, Mr. Thackeray said, “The Opposition should criticize the government where it has failed. However, those who are in power today should not forget that they may be in the Opposition tomorrow. The state should be governed with this understanding. Only then will the people benefit.”

“The elections are over. He is in power now. If we want to make suggestions and get good things done, shouldn’t we meet with him? I will also meet with the Prime Minister tomorrow. There are many issues that need to be conveyed,” he said.

He expressed concern about what he called systematic complicity in illegal immigration. “We have a fence that is eating up the fields. Those who give Aadhaar and ration cards to the infiltrators are from here. Action should be taken against them,” he said, warning that uncontrolled migration would devastate cities.

Mr Thackeray said his party would continue to play the role of a constructive Opposition by remaining open to dialogue with the government on issues of public importance.