‘In response to the question about large crowds at rallies but low voter turnout, it should be noted that similar comments were made about Atal Ji and Bal Thackeray in the past. Those who engage in crooked politics often gain positions, but in the long run, it amounts to nothing. I practice politics straightforwardly. The Janata Party was founded in 1952, but the complete majority only came in 2014. I have patience; people will join and bring power.
Regarding Amit Thackeray choosing the Mahim seat, party leaders suggested he should contest the elections. Amit expressed that if everyone should fight elections and the party supports him, he would too. I was not present in that meeting and only heard about it later, but I didn’t take it seriously. That night, I asked him directly if he wanted to run, and he replied that he felt everyone in the party should contest. Some later suggested that Mahim is better than Bhandup. Personally, I don’t have the temperament to contest elections. I have always been with Balasaheb. If my son has chosen this path, that’s fine,’ says Raj Thackeray