Pune (Maharashtra) [India], August 8 (ANI): Amid increasing political speculation over the possible inclusion of the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) in the INDIA alliance, senior NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) leader and former Pune mayor Prashant Jagtap has said that the alliance would 'wholeheartedly welcome' Raj Thackeray if he decides to come on board.

Speaking to ANI on Thursday, Jagtap said, 'If Raj Thackeray joins the INDIA alliance, it would be a welcome step. Not just me; all the leaders in the alliance would support this move.'

His remarks come at a time when discussions are underway within opposition circles to strengthen the alliance ahead of the upcoming municipal and local body elections in Maharashtra.

Jagtap also said, 'Both Thackeray cousins, Uddhav and Raj, joining hands is a 'positive sign' for Maharashtra's political future. It's a great development, Uddhav and Raj coming together. Maharashtra has a deep-rooted political culture where even rivals have united on many occasions. They are brothers, and if they decide to fight elections together under the INDIA alliance banner, it would boost the opposition and send a strong message across the state,' he said.

The INDIA alliance, comprising Congress, NCP (SP), Shiv Sena (UBT), and other like-minded parties, has been actively working to expand its base and build a unified front against the BJP in Maharashtra.

While there has been no official statement from Raj Thackeray or the MNS on the matter, Jagtap's comments reflect a growing openness within the INDIA bloc to bring in new allies in a bid to consolidate anti-BJP votes, especially in urban regions where the MNS has a sizable influence. (ANI)