Mumbai: The Maharashtra Congress on Friday said it will welcome an alliance between the Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) if it is in the interest of the state and to keep the 'communal' BJP away.
State Congress spokesperson Atul Londhe said, “There has been a talk from both Shiv Sena (UBT) and MNS that they will join hands to protect Maharashtra's interests and keep the communal BJP away. If the two parties are coming together for this, we will welcome the move.”

Meanwhile, UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray said whatever is in the minds of the people of Maharashtra will happen. “I will not give any hints now but will provide direct news in a few days,” he added. However, MNS leaders remain cautious.
Senior party leader Sandeep Deshpande noted that the party wants a concrete proposal before proceeding further, citing past disappointments in 2014 and 2017 when similar discussions fell through.