Raj Thackeray launches new party
Maharashtra Navnirman Sena will formally take off on March 19.
Two months after he resigned from Shiv Sena, Raj Thackeray on Thursday announced formation of his political party, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS).
The party would formally take off on March 19 with a public rally in the city.
Raj, who severed his ties with the Sena on December 18 and later embarked on a two-month long statewide tour, has retained the 'Sena' title in his new outfit.
"I shall elaborate on the party's stance on issues like Hindutva, its agenda for development of Maharashtra and the significance of the party flag colours at the March 19 public meeting," he told reporters in Mumbai.
The meeting is scheduled at Shivaji Park in central Mumbai, venue of the Sena's annual Dussehra rally.
Asked if MNS would also organise such an annual rally, Raj said he had no such plans.
"You can say that March 9 is the Foundation Day of my party", he added.
Asked if there was any scope for a fifth party in the state after Congress, NCP, BJP and Shiv Sena, Raj said he would make a place for his party.
Raj also unveiled the party flag which contains blue, saffron and green colours.
Asked about the significance of these colours, Raj said he would elaborate on the same on March 19.
When it was pointed out that many of his supporters belonged to the second generation of Sena leaders and workers, Raj said he had not 'invited' anyone to join his party.