Raj Thackeray’s resignation from the primary membership of Shiv Sena on Sunday is likely to change the political equation in the state by weakening the Sena and providing a new platform to party rebels who could not have fitted in any other party. Raj’s resignation may also put a spanner in the works of former Sena leader Narayan Rane who is going all out to lure rebel leaders. The disgruntled Sainiks would prefer Raj’s party to the Congress. The Congress, which took pride in stealing away Rane from the Sena, now has a third force to reckon with. The NCP’s juggernaut will also encounter a new obstacle. Amid all this, the Sena may emerge as the biggest loser. Apart from targeting the Sena youths, Raj is set to fan the frustration of professionals, mainly Maharashtrians born and brought up in urban culture but unrecognised by the industry. — Rakshit Sonawane
