Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Sunday addressed the ongoing speculation regarding the potential reunion between estranged cousins Raj and Uddhav Thackeray. Raut confirmed that while there is no formal alliance between the MNS and Shiv Sena (UBT) at present, there have been "emotional talks" taking place.

Speaking to the media, Raut emphasized that despite their political differences, the relationship between the two brothers remains intact. "There is no alliance (between MNS and Shiv Sena-UBT) as of now, only emotional talks are going on. Raj Thackeray and Uddhav Thackeray are brothers. We have been together for years. Our relationship has not broken," Raut stated.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) MP further expressed that the decision about any future alliance would ultimately be left to the two leaders themselves. He added, "We have accepted what Uddhav Ji said: for Maharashtra, if we (MNS and Shiv Sena -UBT) need to come together, we will."

Raut also took a jibe at certain political parties, claiming that those who claimed to be the well-wishers of Maharashtra were actually its enemies. He accused them of fracturing the original Shiv Sena to undermine the state's pride. He echoed Uddhav Thackeray's sentiment, saying, "Uddhav Ji said that there are a few parties who claim to be well-wishers of Maharashtra, but they are the enemy of Maharashtra. They broke Balasaheb's Shiv Sena to attack the pride of Maharashtra, and with such parties, we shouldn't have any relations."

On a more positive note, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed the possibility of a reunion between the two Thackeray cousins, calling it a "good" development. Fadnavis, while speaking to reporters, said, "If the two come together, we will be happy about it. If people settle their differences, it is a good thing. What else can I say about it?"