It looks almost certain that the BJP and the Shiv Sena, which ended their 25-year alliance before the Assembly elections, are headed for a reunion. However, it remains to be seen what role the BJP is willing to concede to the latter in the government. The Sena, which miscalculated its strength in the State ahead of the elections, was desperate to return to its estranged partner. This was evident after its supremo, Uddhav Thackeray, sent two trusted aides to Delhi with the message that his party was willing to do business with the BJP as a junior partner.
Anil Desai, one of the Sena emissaries, described their talks with BJP leaders as “positive.” However, there is no clarity yet on the formula on number and sharing of portfolios.
