Tuesday, January 17 2006 21:06 Hrs (IST) - World Time -

Nasik: Former Shiv Sena leader Raj Thackeray today (Jan 17, 2006) said he would launch his new political party in March.

Raj, who is touring Maharashtra in the run-up to the formation of the party, told reporters here that he would be involving NGOs in understanding the basic issues facing various revenue divisions and districts in the state.

"I will involve NGOs in understanding the problems faced by people in the five revenue divisions at the grass-root level," Raj said in an informal chat.

Raj began his tour from Thane and is scheduled to leave for Dhule tomorrow on the next leg of the tour.

Asked reasons for photos of Sena chief Bal Thackeray appearing on his hoardings despite his leaving the Sena last month, Raj said 'I consider Balasaheb as my deity'.

Raj said being a former Shiv Sainik or legislator or MP would not be a criterion for being a member of his party.

"Those who work will be given priority," he said.