Yavatmal, June 27 -- Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Saturday asserted that the Thackeray family would emerge stronger despite the recent rebellion in the party, saying "the Thackerays rise from the ashes," while launching a sharp attack on rebel MP Sanjay Deshmukh.

Addressing reporters in Yavatmal, Raut said the Shiv Sena (UBT) would continue to remain strong despite the recent defections.

"Tell Sanjay Deshmukh this Shiv Sena is not going to end. The Thackerays do not finish--they rise from the ashes. To remain loyal, one must have one mother and one father. We are loyal," Raut said.

Reiterating his earlier allegations that rebel MPs switched sides for money, Raut claimed Deshmukh was "sold" for Rs 50 crore.

"A meeting is underway ...