Shiv Sena should stop targeting PM Modi, says Raosaheb Danve

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Where are the differences between the Shiv Sena and BJP heading?
In coalition politics, differences are inevitable. But I don’t justify Shiv Sena repeatedly targeting our governments at the centre and the state. I don’t understand why they should attack the PM for his tours. I feel that by public criticism, the Sena is neither enhancing its own image nor undermining the BJP’s image. Yet, since both are in coalition it will affect both. Sena leadership needs to explain why they have adopted such behaviour against BJP.

Is it because the BJP is not giving adequate audience to Sena’s concerns?
It’s not true. Whenever there were issues, our leaders held discussions with the Sena. In the recent past, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, Finance Minister Arun Jaitely and myself have been to Matoshree (Thackeray’s residence) and held talks. We are ever ready for talks with Sena. But how does one explain when they hold discussions and the next day attack our PM? How does one approach this mindset. Yet, our doors are always open for dialogue.

What about problems within the BJP? Your ministers are fighting each other.
It is not correct. I have been regularly holding talks with cabinet ministers who come to the BJP headquarters. Not a single minister has ever complained against others to me. Now, if Revenue Minister Eknath Khadse skipped a cabinet meeting it does not mean he is unhappy with the CM. He was unwell. Once even Finance Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar could not attend the cabinet. However, it was not noted. All is well in the BJP and its ministers.

How do you propose to address Sena-BJP differences at party levels?
We have a coordination committee comprising senior leaders and ministers. Whether it is Sena’s opposition to Jaitapur project or land acquisition bill, these should be discussed in the proper forum. The Sena should stop speaking against BJP in public forums.

Smaller allies, Republican Party of India, Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana, Rashtriya Samaj Party and Shivsangram seem unhappy with BJP.
Every party has its own agenda and wants to retain its identity. We have just constituted a Mahauti Coordination Committee. If there are any issues it will be discussed in the committee which comprises leaders from all these parties.