A file image of Maharashtra Navnirman Sena Chief Raj Thackeray.
| Photo Credit: ANI
Asserting that the “politics of suspicion” was detrimental to democracy, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) president Raj Thackeray on Friday (February 20, 2026) emphasised the need for a constructive Opposition that engages with the government on matters of public interest.
“Maharashtra used to have a healthy political culture. After the elections, everyone used to meet each other and talk. That has stopped. Now, everything is looked at with contempt. This will not work,” Mr. Thackeray told, while defending his recent meeting with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde.
The MNS chief, who met the Shiv Sena leader a day earlier, said his outreach was driven purely by civic concerns and not political realignment. He submitted a memorandum highlighting pressing issues in Mumbai, which he claimed had been forwarded to the authorities.
Expanding on his vision for responsible Opposition, Mr. Thackeray remarked, “The Opposition must criticise the government where it fails. But those in power today should remember they may be in the Opposition tomorrow. The state must be run with this understanding. Only then will the people benefit.”
“The elections are over. Now he is in power. If we want to offer suggestions or get good work done, should we not meet him? Tomorrow I will also meet the Chief Minister. There are many issues that need to be conveyed,” he said.
On the issue of illegal immigration, he expressed concern over what he termed systemic complicity. “We have a fence eating up the fields. Those issuing Aadhaar and ration cards to infiltrators are from here. Action should be taken against them,” he said, warning that unchecked migration would ruin cities.
Mr. Thackeray said his party would continue to play the role of a constructive Opposition while remaining open to dialogue with the government on issues of public importance.
Published – February 21, 2026 02:44 am IST
