Mumbai:
The Thackeray Parivaar could be facing another defection within the family. This time from its bahu Smita, ex wife of Sena chief 's son Jaidev.
Reports suggest she wants to leave the party and join hands with the Congress because she is unhappy over the way she has been marginalized.
Emerging from political oblivion, Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray's daughter-in-law creates a new controversy.
Smita is the ex wife of Bal Thackeray's son Jaidev. The two separated in the 90s, but she continued to stay at Matoshree, the family home, after the split and was said to be close to the Sena chief.
Smita refused to speak to the media. Her son Rahul Thackeray only said she remains a part of the family.
"We are still part of the Thackeray family and we are not severing ties with them. My mother has been unhappy about certain issues and we will let the press know as and when she has made up her mind on the stand that she will take. She has spoken to Sonia Gandhi out of respect and admiration but this is not linked to any political ambition," said Rahul.
In 1995, when the Sena-BJP came to power, Smita Thackeray was a power centre in herself, considered close to the Sena supremo. But ever since Uddhav took over around a decade ago, he is said to have played an instrumental role in sidelining her.
Since then she has largely been known for backing Bollywood films as producer.
"I don't want to say anything. Everyone is free to take his/her own decision but let us know what her decision is. First we should know about the decision only after that one can react," said Uddhav.
Today Smita is no longer politically significant, but her departure will be another embarrassing chapter in the Thackeray family drama.