Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president Sharad Pawar said there was no need to worry about the one-on-one meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, because the Shiv Sena was a trusted partner. He also invoked the late Balasaheb Thackeray, who had kept his promise of not opposing Indira Gandhi four decades ago.

“Speculations started after Thackeray met the PM. Doubts were raised. If some people think that the Sena will give up its strong role (in the MVA), then, they are living in a different paradise,” said Pawar, adding that there was nothing to worry about this meeting, while assuring the NCP’s rank and file at the party’s 22nd foundation day on Thursday.