Allies Shiv Sena and BJP are wrangling over seat-sharing in Maharashtra. (Associated Press photo)
The BJP has been advised to draw lessons from its sub-par performance in by-elections today not only by its political rivals, but also members of key ally, the Shiv Sena.
A big setback in Uttar Pradesh, and losses in Rajasthan and Gujarat, all states it swept four months ago in the national elections, has come just as the BJP is engaged in tough negotiations with the Shiv Sena on seat sharing in Maharashtra, where assembly elections are due next month.
Former leader of Opposition, Shiv Sena's Ramdas Kadam said, "BJP leaders need to have their feet planted firmly on the ground. It's still not too late." He added sarcastically, "If BJP leaders in Maharashtra are still banking on the Modi wave, I wish them luck."
Another senior Shiv Sena leader, who refused to be named said, "The results are not reflective of the Modi government's performance at the Centre." He added, "The by-elections should be a lesson for the BJP. Our criticism of the Modi wave is vindicated by these results."
Talks between the two partners ground to a standstill after Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said sarcastically, "There is a Modi wave and there was nothing wrong in saying that there are other waves, like in the sea there are many waves."
The Sena participates in the BJP-led central government. At the core of their tussle is the BJP's suggestion that the two parties should contest 135 seats apiece in the assembly elections in Maharashtra, leaving 18 seats for their smaller allies.
The Sena wants to contest nothing less than 155 of the state's 288 seats. The BJP which had won more seats in the national elections credits the spectacular performance to a "Narendra Modi wave" and argues that it is no more the junior partner.
"Can the BJP still demand 135 seats for the Maharashtra elections," asked a Shiv Sena leader, who refused to be named, also confirming that his party would continue to talk tough on seat sharing.
Much seems to hinge on a likely meeting between Mr Thackeray and BJP chief Amit Shah in Mumbai on Thursday. The stakes are high as the party with the most legislators will have the bigger claim to the Chief Minister's post.