After exit polls, Shiv Sena goes soft on BJP

With most exit polls projecting Bharatiya Janata Party’s emergence as the single-largest party in Maharashtra but falling short of a majority, the Shiv Sena hinted at a possible reconciliation with its former saffron ally, saying there should be "no bitterness any more".

Complete coverage: Battle for Maharashtra

"There is no need to have arguments or bitterness any more. Hearts have been broken. Though it is difficult to mend broken hearts, Maharashtra needs stability and peace. It is better that we wait for the day of counting," Sena said in an editorial in its mouthpiece Saamana.

Almost all exit polls have predicted that the BJP will be the largest party in the 288-member assembly followed by the Shiv Sena, while the one conducted by Today's Chanakya has projected a clear majority for the BJP.

After a messy separation just ahead of the poll, BJP leaders had, by and large, refrained from attacking Shiv Sena while stumping, a gesture not reciprocated by its leader Uddhav Thackeray, who had blamed the former ally for the split.

The editorial also slammed the exit poll results.

"Talking to a few thousand people for their opinion and then coming out with exit polls is showing disrespect to the decision of the electorate. But the media is doing its job to earn their livelihood," it said.

"We have faith in our people. The saffron flag will flutter victoriously on October 19," the editorial said.

Image: Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray with son and Yuva Sena chief Aditya. Photograph: PTI