India, Dec. 28 -- Three decades after the Shiv Sena was accused of stoking communal riots in Mumbai, the Thackerays are turning to the Muslim community to bolster their poll prospects in their fight for political survival in Mumbai.

In 1992, the Sena was accused of being involved in the post-Babri Masjid demolition riots, and another round of rioting in 1993. Despite the intense heat he faced, Sena founder Bal Thackeray proudly said the party had "protected Hindus" when communal clashes broke out in Mumbai.

Now Thackeray's heirs - his son Uddhav and nephew Raj - are looking at ways to secure the Muslim vote. If the Shiv Sena (UBT) led by Uddhav Thackeray wins the BMC elections, it will be a big boost for Thackeray in a city that has tra...