Wednesday, August 17 2005 19:34 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Mumbai: The controversy over Shiv Sena leader Raj Thackeray's remarks regarding removal of inactive members from the party posts, seemed to have subsided, at least for now, with Raj stating that all his grievances have been resolved during his meeting with Sena chief Bal Thackeray today (August 17, 2005).

The meeting, held at Thackeray's suburban Bandra residence 'Matoshree', was also attended by Sena's Executive President Uddhav Thackeray and lasted for more than an hour and thereafter both Raj and Uddhav came out and jointly addressed the media.

"The result of today's (August 17, 2005) meeting will be seen through our actions in the future. We will work together for the interest of the party," Raj said.

Uddhav was by his side but did not utter a word.

Raj, however, refused to entertain more queries saying, "We have not come here for question and answer session."

Before Uddhav and Raj met media persons, senior party leader Manohar Joshi, who was also present at the meeting, told reporters that there were no differences between Raj and Uddhav. "Today (August 17, 2005) is very auspicious day for Shiv Sena and also a day of great satisfaction," Joshi said.

Asked who was responsible for the controversy, he said, "Media."

Raj Thackeray had created ripples in the Sena by openly demanding removal of inactive members from the party posts and suggested restructuring of the Shiv Sena.

Although Raj did not name the inactive people, the remarks were considered to be directed against some persons appointed to the party posts by Uddhav, party sources said.

Raj had also indirectly criticised Uddhav's decision to send party workers from Mumbai, along with him on his recent visit to Konkan region of Maharashtra, in the aftermath of heavy rains which caused large-scale damage in the region.

Raj had said the presence of workers from Mumbai during his visit to Sindhudurg district, stronghold of expelled Sena leader Narayan Rane, had created tension and he had cut short the visit as he did not want Shiv Sainiks fighting among themselves.