Maha Govt Formation: Shiv Sena CM Will Have Full Term, Says Raut
Catch all the updates as parties try to form the government in Maharashtra in the wake of the Assembly elections.
A day after Uddhav Thackeray met NCP president Sharad Pawar, the Shiv Sena on Friday, 22 November, announced that the chief minister will be from their party.
The Congress on Thursday said that the government formation talks between the three parties have entered the ‘last leg’.
The Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena are scheduled to meet in Mumbai at 4 pm later in the day.
Catch all the live updates here.
- Sharad Pawar met PM Modi in the parliament premises on 21 November
- Maharashtra has been under President’s rule since 12 November after no party or alliance staked claim to form government or conveyed support from enough MLAs to Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari
- Sena accuses BJP of reneging on their pre-poll agreement of a 50:50 power split
- BJP won 105 seats, while Shiv Sena won 56 in the Assembly elections
- Opposition Congress won 44 seats, while NCP won 54
(At The Quint, we are answerable only to our audience. Play an active role in shaping our journalism by becoming a member. Because the truth is worth it.)
Sena Union Minister Arvind Sawant Resigns
Union Minister (Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises) and Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant announces his resignation from the post.
BJP Core Group Meeting At Fadnavis' Residence
BJP core group meeting to be held today at the residence of Devendra Fadnavis in Mumbai.
Sonia to Chair CWC Over Maharashtra Situation
Congress has called a Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting at Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi's residence in Delhi, over the political situation in Maharashtra.
BJP Arrogant Enough to Sit in Oppn But Won’t Honour Promises: Sena
Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Monday, 11 November said that the BJP was “arrogant” enough to sit in the Opposition but wasn’t willing to honour promises made before the Lok Sabha polls.
“It is BJP's arrogance that they are refusing to form government in Maharashtra. It is an insult to the people of Maharashtra. They are willing to sit in opposition, but they are reluctant to follow the 50-50 formula, for which they agreed before polls,” he said.
Haven't Discussed Sena Minister's Resignation With Anyone: Pawar
Speaking to the media, NCP President Sharad Pawar said that he has not discussed the resignation of Sena’s Union Minister Arvind Sawant with anybody.
“I haven't had a word with anyone regarding anyone’s resignation. We'll have a word with Congress today. Whatever decision is to be taken will be taken only after discussions with Congress,” he said.
Congress Leaders to Meet Again at 4 pm
After Sonia Gandhi chaired a CWC meet to discuss Maharashtra’s political situation, the party will meet state leadership at 4 pm.
“We have called our Maharashtra leaders to Delhi for further discussions, the meeting will be at 4 pm,” said Mallikarjun Kharge after the meet
'Waiting for Congress to Decide': NCP
NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the party is awaiting Congress’ stand over extending support to the Shiv Sena.
“We are waiting for Congress to take a decision. We fought elections together and whatever will be decided, it will be decided together,” he said.
Uddhav Thackeray to Meet Sharad Pawar
Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will meet NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Monday, 11 November at the latter’s residence as the two parties contemplate government formation in the state.
Uddhav Thackeray Meets Sharad Pawar
Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray met NCP president Sharad Pawar in Mumbai.
The Sena chief was accompanied by his son Aaditya Thackeray as he called on Pawar. NCP leader Ajit Pawar was also present at the meet.
Would Have Been Morally Incorrect: Sena Union Minister Arvind Sawant After Resignation
Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant who resigned as the Union Minister said that he couldn’t continue to be in the government since the BJP backed-off on its promises.
“BJP went back from their pre election promises. It would not have been morally right for me to continue in the Centre, so I have resigned as Union Minister,” he said.
Senior Congress Leaders Leave Jaipur Resort to Attend Meet
Senior Congress leaders have left the resort in Jaipur, where newly-elected Maharashtra Congress legislators are staying, to attend the working committee meeting of the party in Delhi.
The Congress is expected to take a final call on extending support to the Shiv Sena at the meeting of its top leadership with Maharashtra state leaders at 4 pm.
Former Union minister Sushil Kumar Shinde, former chief ministers Prithviraj Chavan and Ashok Chavan, state Congress chief Balasaheb Thorat and party general secretary Avinash Pande have left the resort, sources said.
Maharashtra Congress Leaders Reach Delhi
Maharashtra Congress leaders have landed in Delhi from Jaipur and are set to be part of the 4 pm meeting with party chief Sonia Gandhi, reports said.
Sanjay Raut Admitted to Hospital Due to Chest Pain
Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut was rushed to the Lilavati Hospital in Bandra on Monday afternoon after he complained of uneasiness. Dr. Jalil Parkar, heart specialist confirmed to IANS that he was admitted to the hospital, but declined to comment on his health condition.
Maharashtra Congress Leaders Reach Sonia Gandhi's Residence
Congress leaders AK Antony and Ahmed Patel reached Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi's residence in Delhi. Party's Maharashtra leaders have been called to Delhi for further discussions over the political situation in the state. The meeting will be held shortly.
Uddhav Thackeray Has Telephonic Conversation With Sonia Gandhi
As the struggle to form government in Maharashtra continues, Uddhav Thackeray, on Monday, 11 November, reportedly had a telephonic conversation with Congress chief Sonia Gandhi.
Shiv Sena Leaders Eknath Shinde and Aaditya Thackeray Reach Governor's House to Stake Claim
Shiv Sena leaders Eknath Shinde and Aaditya Thackeray reached Raj Bhawan to stake claim to form government in Maharashtra. Three independent MLAs also reached the Governor’s house to extend support to the Shiv Sena.
AIMIM MLAs in Maharashtra Not to Support Shiv Sena-Congress, Tweets Owaisi
AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi tweeted on Monday, 11 November, that 2 of their MLAs in Maharashtra will not extend support to the “Shiv Sena-Congress government.”
Congress, NCP Have Sent Letters of Support to Shiv Sena, Says Saamana
Shiv Sena mouthpiece Saamana confirmed that the Congress and NCP have sent letters of support to the right-wing party in Maharashtra.
Will Have Further Discussions With NCP: Congress on Supporting Shiv Sena
Congress, in a statement, said “they will have further discussions with the NCP” on extending support to the Shiv Sena.
Maha Governor's Office Releases Statement on Shiv Sena's Request for More Time
The Maharashtra Governor’s office has released a statement saying that a delegation of Shiv Sena leaders met the governor and expressed their willingness to form governor but he had expressed an inability to grant them the requested extension.
Maha Guv Refused More Time to Sena to Form Government: Aaditya Thackeray
Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray told reporters outside Raj Bhavan here on Monday night that his party's claim on formation of a government still stands, as the two parties have agreed "in-principle" to support the Sena-led government.
Aaditya claimed that Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari refused to grant more time to the Sena to muster numbers.
Maharashtra Governor Called Me, Don't Know Why: NCP's Ajit Pawar
NCP leader Ajit Pawar said, “Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari called me, don't know reason. Along with Chhagan Bhujbal, Jayant Patil and others, I am going to meet him.”
NCP Leaders at Raj Bhavan to Meet Governor
Ajit Pawar, Dhananjay Munde and other NCP leaders are at Raj Bhavan, where they are meeting the Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.
Maharashtra Governor Invites NCP to Stake Claim, Gives Them 24 Hours
Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Monday night invited the NCP, which is the third largest party in the state, to Raj Bhavan.
A statement tweeted out from the official page of Maharashtra Governor said, “Yesterday Eknath Shinde was called upon to express his willingness & ability to form Govt. Shiv Sena leaders met the Governor and submitted a letter expressing their willingness to form govt; however they couldn't submit the requisite letter of support from alliance partners.”
It further said, “The Governor has, therefore, asked the leader of elected members of the third largest party, Nationalist Congress Party, Ajit Pawar, to convey its willingness and ability to form the government to him.”
After Opting out of Maha Govt Race, BJP in 'Wait & Watch' Mode
The Bharatiya Janata Party, which has opted out of race for government formation in Maharashtra, has adopted a 'wait and watch' policy in the state which saw hectic activity in camps of major non-BJP parties on Monday.
Uddhav, Aaditya Thackeray Likely to Meet Sena MLAs at 10 am
Uddhav Thackeray and Aaditya Thackeray are likely to meet all the MLAs of their party at Madhy island resort at 10 am, reported CNN-News18.
President Accepts Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant's Resignation
President Ram Nath Kovind has accepted the resignation of Shiv Sena MP Arvind Ganpat with immediate effect. Further, he has directed that Prakash Javadekar be assigned the charge of Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises, in addition to his existing portfolios.
NCP Leader Sharad Pawar Likely to Meet MLAs Today
As the Maharashtra impasse continues, news reports suggest that the top Congress leaders have cancelled their visit to Maharashtra. However, NCP leader Sharad Pawar is likely to meet state Congress leaders today at 4 pm.
Waited for Congress' Letter Yesterday: Ajit Pawar
Speaking to the media, NCP leader Ajit Pawar said that the party waited for the Congress’ letter of support and reiterated that a decision will be taken collectively by all the parties concerned.
“Whatever decision will be taken will be taken collectively, so we were waiting for Congress response yesterday but it didn’t come. We can’t decide on it alone. There is no misunderstanding, we contested together and are together,” Pawar added.
“From morning 10 am till 7:30 pm on Monday, our leaders including Sharad Pawar, Praful Patel were waiting for their letter. They had to submit the letter till 7:30 pm on Monday”, Pawar added.
Sharad Pawar to Meet Sanjay Raut at Lilavati Hospital
NCP chief Sharad Pawar to meet Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut at Lilavati hospital today.
Pawar Meets Raut at Lilavati
NCP Chief Sharad Pawar met Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut at Lilawati hospital today. Raut was admitted to hospital on Monday after he complained of chest pain.
Don't Know of Any Meeting With Congress: Pawar
Speaking to reporters, NCP supremo Sharad Pawar denied the possibility of any meeting with the Congress today.
“Who says there is a meeting? I don't know,” Pawar.
Ailing Sanjay Raut Tweets from Hospital
Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Tuesday tweeted to to say, “the ones who keep trying, never lose.”
BJP leader Ashish Shelar Meets Sanjay Raut
BJP leader Ashish Shelar met Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut at Lilawati hospital.
Kharge, Ahmed Patel to Meet NCP Leaders in Mumbai
Senior Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge and Ahmed Patel will meet NCP leaders in Mumbai
Will Move Forward After Discussions with NCP: Kharge
Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Tuesday spoke to NCP chief Sharad Pawar and authorised three senior party leaders to hold further talks on the issue of government formation in Maharashtra.
As hectic deliberations continued, Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal would be leaving for Mumbai later in the day for holding discussions with NCP chief Sharad Pawar.
Congress leader Mallikarjun kharge said that any decision regarding extending support to the Shiv Sena will be made only after consultations with the NCP.
“NCP and Congress had pre-poll alliance, and final decision will be a collective decision. Our talks with NCP are on, and we will only move forward once discussions with them are done,” he said.
“Congress president Sonia Gandhi ji and Sharad Pawar ji too held discussion. We will hold further talks and will take a decision collectively,” he added.
'People Will Know Who was Colluding with Whom:' Owaisi on Cong-NCP Supporting Sena
Taking a jibe at Congres-NCP, AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi said that he will not be supporting the Shiv Sena led government.
“We will neither support a BJP-led government nor a Shiv Sena-led government. We reiterate our stand. I am happy if Congress-NCP are supporting Shiv Sena, people will know who was cutting whose votes and who was colluding with whom,” he said.
Sena to Move Court if President's Rule Imposed in Maharashtra: Reports
If the Maharashtra Governor imposes President Rule in the state, Shiv Sena can approach Supreme Court, ANI reported quoting sources. Uddhav Thackeray has reportedly talked to Kapil Sibal and Ahmed Patel over the issue.
PM Likely to Discuss Maharashtra in Cabinet Meet
Prime Minister Narendra Modi convened a cabinet meeting on Tuesday, apparently to discuss the political situation in Maharashtra, PTI reported.
The meeting was convened amid an ongoing political stalemate in the state where no party has been able to form the government so far after the assembly election last month.
The prime minister is to leave for Brazil this afternoon to attend the BRICS summit.
'Sharad Pawar Will Take Final Call on Alliance': NCP
NCP leader Nawab Malik on Tuesday said that Sharad Pawar will be taking the final call on joining hands with the Shiv Sena.
“Today, NCP meeting was held. All 54 MLAs were present. It has been decided that looking at the uncertainty in the state, we will empower Sharad Pawar ji to take a decision on alternative government. A committee will be formed for the same which will be led by Sharad Pawar,” he said.
“Governor called us to stake claim yesterday and gave us time till 8:30 pm today. Senior Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal are coming to Mumbai and will meet Pawar sa'ab at 5 pm. Decision will be taken after their discussion,” he added.
“ The party believes that it is not possible to form an alternative govt without the coming together of the three parties (Congress, NCP, Shiv Sena). As long as the three don't come together, there cannot be a stable govt in Maharashtra,” Malik said.
Union Cabinet Recommends President's Rule
The Union Cabinet on Tuesday recommended President's rule in Maharashtra where no political party has been able to form a government after the assembly polls last month.
Sources said the Union cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, met here this afternoon to discuss the political impasse in Maharashtra and decided to recommend to the president to impose Central rule in the state.
Governor Recommends president's Rule in Maharashtra
Amid government formation struggle, Maharashtra governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari recommended President's rule in the state where no political party has been able to form a government after the assembly polls last month.
Shiv Sena Moves SC Against President's Rule
Shiv Sena filed a petition in Supreme Court challenging Maharashtra Governor's decision to not extend the time given to the party to prove their ability to form government. Advocate Sunil Fernandez has filed the plea for Shiv Sena.
Calling the governor’s actions “arbitary and mala fide,” the Sena in its petition said that he cannot act as a “stumbling block for thwarting/stalling a political party from forming the Government.”
Here are the synopsis of the writ petition:
'Why 48 Hours to BJP & 24 Hours to Sena?': Congress' Surjewala Questions Time Given to Prove Majority
Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala took to Twitter to question the imposition of President’s rule and asked why all parties weren’t given 48 hours to prove majority, same as the BJP.
Kharge, Ahmed Patel Arrive in Mumbai to Meet Pawar
Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Ahmed Patel and KC Venugopal arrive in Mumbai, to meet Nationalist Congress Party Chief Sharad Pawar.
Prez Rule Imposed in a Hurry: Congress
The Congress on Tuesday said Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari acted in a hurry in sending his report recommending President's rule in Maharashtra without exhausting all options for government formation.
"I condemn this action which has been taken in a hurry without exhausting all options. This raises questions about the governor's impartiality. This also raises doubt whether the governor is acting under pressure," Maharashtra Congress spokesman Sachin Sawant told reporters here.
Another senior Congressman Vijay Wadettiwar, who was leader of the opposition in the 13th state Assembly, the tenure of which expired on November 9, felt President's rule will not be a roadblock in government formation.
"When all the three parties (Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena) show that we have the support of more than 144 MLAs, the governor will have to invite us to form government," he said.
Senior Congress leader and former Union minister Sushilkumar Shinde echoed a similar view, saying "once we have letters of support, the President's rule can be lifted".
Shiv Sena to File Second Petition in SC if President's Rule Imposed
The Shiv Sena will file a second petition in the Supreme Court if the President's rule is imposed in Maharashtra, a party lawyer said on Tuesday.
“We will file a second petition today itself if the President's rule is imposed in the state,” Advocate Sunil Fernandes, who filed the first petition on behalf of Shiv Sena, told PTI.
He said the party lawyers have received no response from the apex court registrar for the request of giving urgent hearing Tuesday itself on its first petition in which the party has sought quashing of the Governor's Monday decision not to give three days time to submit letter of support for government formation in the state.
Prez Rule Imposed in Maha After Kovind’s Nod as Sena Moves SC
President Ram Nath Kovind gave nod to impose President’s rule in Maharashtra after Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari’s recommendation.
Congress Leaders Arrive at YB Chavan Centre for Meeting Sharad Pawar
Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge, Ahmed Patel and KC Venugopal arrive at YB Chavan centre for a meeting with NCP chief Sharad Pawar. President's Rule has been imposed in the state of Maharashtra.
Will Have to See the Sena Petition to Take Further Step: Maha Govt Lawyer
Nishant Katnekar, the lawyer for the Maharashtra government, on Shiv Sena filing a petition, challenging the communication of the Governor by which their claim has been rejected with regard to the formation of the government, said that he will have to receive a copy of the petition to see the prayers, contents, grounds and thereafter appropriate steps will be taken.
President's Rule Better than Uncertainty: MHA Spokesperson
Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) Spokesperson, on the developments in Maharashtra, said that the governor was of the view that it haeen 15 days since the end of the electoral procedures, and none of the parties are ready to form a government in the stae.
“In light of this, the president’s rule is a better option,” the MHA spokesperson was quoted by ANI as saying.
Getting All Information from News Channels: Shiv Sena's Lawyer
Rajesh Inamdar, the lawyer for Shiv Sena, on the president’s rule being imposed in Maharashtra, said that whatever information he is getting, is from the news channels.
Inamdar has urged for a leal discussion on the same, and said that if there is a necessity for filing a new petition, legal recourse will be taken according t the law.
Congress, NCP Joint Meeting Underway
Leaders of Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) during a joint meeting in Mumbai.
SC Denies Urgent Hearing to Sena, Matter May Come up Tomorrow: Sena Lawyer
No urgent hearing took place in Supreme Court on Shiv Sena’s plea against Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari's decision of denying three more days to the party to get letters of support from NCP and Congress.
“SC registry has said they may mention the matter tomorrow before the court, for urgent hearing. Fresh, second petition challenging the imposition of President's Rule is being readied. The decision on when to file it will be taken tomorrow,” Shiv Sena's lawyer Sunil Fernandes said.
'Will Come to Conclusion When Both Camps are Unanimous': Cong, NCP
Addressing a joint press conference in Mumbai, the Nationalist Congress Parry (NCP) and the Congress said that they will make a further announcement post more discussion on the Maharashtra power struggle.
While the NCP said that there will be further announcement only after the two sides have held proper discussion on the issue. The Congress, on the other hand, said that the governor should have invited their party to form the government.
BJP Still in Talks with Us: Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray
Shiv Sena Chief, Uddhav Thackeray, on Tuesday 12 November, addressed a press conference on the ongoing developments in Maharashtra, saying that the Shiv Sena was not given enough time to prove majority, unlike the governor giving time to the BJP.
“Yesterday we formally requested Congress-NCP for their support to form the government,” Thackeray said.
He further said that he is still willing to ally with the BJP if the party agrees to Sena’s demands.
Hope to See Formation of Stable Govt Soon: Devendra Fadnavis
Devendra Fadnavis has issued a statement, saying that he is disappointed that despite there being a clear mandate of the people, President’s Rule has been imposed in Maharashtra. He has also stated that he hopes to see the formation of a stable government soon in the state since there are many other problems to be dealt with.
“President's rule is unfortunate but we expect that Maharashtra will get a stable government soon,” Fadnavis stated.
BJP Will Form Govt: BJP Leader Narayan Rane
BJP leader and former Maharashtra chief minister Narayan Rane on Tuesday said he would do "whatever" to ensure his party forms a government in the state.
Rane, a Rajya Sabha MP, was a former Shiv Sena CM who then quit the saffron party to join the Congress before floating his own outfit and then joining the BJP.
"I will do whatever it takes to form a new BJP government, but I will not discuss (modalities) how," he told reporters.
He said the Shiv Sena had been "unsuccessful" in government formation as yet, and went on to claim "I don't think the Shiv Sena will go with the Congress-NCP alliance".
Speaking to reporters, Rane said it was unfair to delay the formation of a government and accused the Sena of not cooperating with the BJP despite claiming publicly that it cared for the concerns of the state's people.
Rane said he had met Devendra Fadnavis, who ceased to be chief minister after President's Rule was imposed, and the latter had asked him to start work on forming a government.
Sena, NCP and Cong Will Work out Formula for Govt Formation: Thackeray
The Shiv Sena, the Congress and the NCP will work out a formula for formation of a government in Maharashtra, Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said on Tuesday. He said the Sena also needs a clarity on the Common Minimum Programme (CMP) just like the Congress and the NCP.
Thackeray also took a dig at Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari over imposition of the President's Rule in the state.
Addressing a press conference at a suburban hotel shortly after a similar presser held by leaders of the Congress and NCP in south Mumbai, Thackeray said the Sena had contacted the Cong and the NCP for the first time on 11 November.
"Just like the Congress and NCP, the Sena also needs a clarity on the Common Minimum Programme (CMP)," he said, adding that the Sena contacted the Congress and the NCP for first time on Monday which negates the BJP's charge that Sena was in touch with these two parties since poll results.
"The Sena was invited to stake claim to form government even before the end of the deadline given to the BJP," Thackeray alleged.
'Will Back One Common Candidate in Case of Defection': Ajit Pawar
NCP leader Ajit Pawar said that considering the political situation in the state, the thres parties, NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena will back one common candidate..
“NCP had given a letter to the Governor seeking an extension of three days as Congress leaders were not here and situation was different in the morning. We wanted more time for the entire procedure (formation of government),” he said.
“If there is a situation of defection, three parties A,B and C will decide to back one common candidate then no one can defeat us,” he added.
'BJP Deriving Sadistic Pleasure Out of Curent Situation': Sena
In a vitriolic attack on the BJP, the Shiv Sena on Wednesday said it was deriving "sadistic pleasure" out of the struggle of other political parties to form government in Maharashtra.
Without taking any names, the Sena, in an editorial in party mouthpiece 'Saamana', said those who talk of ethics in politics are currently the "most disruptive".
“If a party with 105 MLAs could not form government, others would struggle for sure. But it does not mean the largest party should rejoice. This attitude of deriving sadistic pleasure has pushed Maharashtra into today's situation,” the Sena claimed.
The BJP, as the single largest party, was given “15 days” to form government, but the Sena got merely 24 hours, it rued.
How could signatures of all MLAs be secured when some were out of the state? the Sena wondered, adding that “this is called misuse of the state machinery”.
It seems someone is more happy over non-formation of government in the state, the Sena said in sarcastic comments.
"Those who talk of ethics in politics are the most disruptive in the current politics," the Marathi daily said.
Sena To Not Mention Petition in SC
The Shiv Sena will not mention in the Supreme Court on Wednesday its plea challenging the governor's decision of not granting it three days time for getting letter of support for government formation in Maharashtra, according to the party lawyer.
The lawyer representing Shiv Sena in the apex court told PTI that the party has preferred not to mention the petition.
The lawyer said another petition challenging the imposition of President's rule in the state was being readied but were non-committal when the fresh petition will be filed.
Discussions with Sena to Happen After Taks With Cong: NCP
NCP leader Ajit pawar said that any discussions with shiv Sena on the alliance will take place only after talks with the Congress and other allies.
“As far as discussions on Shiv Sena goes, we'll do that only after discussing with alliance partners as we had a common manifesto. Shiv Sena's manifesto was different, so we'll have an understanding with Congress first and then go ahead with discussions on Shiv Sena,” he said.
“Today our leader Jayant Patil will call Balasaheb Thorat (President of Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee) for further discussions between the parties and discuss the dates from when we can have a joint discussion on how to go ahead,” he added.
Cong Sets Up Committee of Maharashtra Leaders
Congress has set up a committee of Maharashtra leaders for talks on Common Minimum Programme with Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). The committee includes Ashok Chavan, Prithviraj Chavan, Manikrao Thakre, Balasaheb Thorat and Vijay Wadettiwar.
Uddhav Meets Cong Netas to Talk Minimum Programme
Uddhav Thackeray meets Congress co-ordination committee to work on common minimum programme for the alliance. The meeting is underway at Trident Hotel, BKC.
The meeting is being attended by Jayant Patil, Ajit Pawar, Chagan Bujbal, Dhananjay Munde and Nawab Malik of the NCP.
Congress leaders Balasaheb Thorat, Prithviraj Chavhan, Ashok Chavhan, Vijay Waddetiwar and Manikrao Thakre are also present.
'Will Inform of Our Decision Soon': Uddhav After Talks with Cong NCP
Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray after conclusion of a meeting with Congress and NCP leaders in Mumbai said that the decision will be informed soon.
“Discussions have started, whatever decision will be taken we will inform soon,” he said.
Cong, NCP Likely to Hold Meetings in Delhi
The Congress and NCP are likely to hold meetings in Delhi in next three to four days to work out modalities of their possible tie-up with the Shiv Sena to form the government in Maharashtra.
Sources told PTI on Wednesday, 12 November that NCP chief Sharad Pawar, and senior party leaders Praful Patel and Sunil Tatkare are likely to hold parleys with the Congress to evolve a consensus on what should be the policies if the Shiv Sena is to be backed to form government.
"The Congress president (Sonia Gandhi) will take a call on who will discuss these issues with the NCP on our party's behalf. The discussions are likely to be held in Delhi over the next three to four days," a senior Congress leader told PTI on condition of anonymity.
The leader reiterated that the Congress and NCP will first work out details of the 'common minimum programme' (CMP) at their level before the Shiv Sena comes into picture.
Cong on Alert to Prevent 'Operation Lotus': Prithviraj Chavan
Senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Wednesday, 13 November, said that the party was on alert to prevent a possible "Operation lotus" – attempts by the BJP to engineer defections from other parties – in Maharashtra.
As President's rule was imposed in the state on Tuesday, the Congress and NCP are in talks about whether to support the Shiv Sena for government formation.
Chavan, a former chief minister, alleged while speaking to a news channel that the BJP was trying to stop the Sena from joining hands with the Congress and NCP.
"We are alert about `Operation lotus'," he said.
He was referring to BJP leader Narayan Rane's statement on Tuesday that former chief minister Devendra Fadnavis had asked Rane to start work on forming a BJP-led government in the state.
Fadnavis as CM Was Decided, Sena Came Up With New Demands: Amit Shah
Union Home Minister Amit Shah, on Wednesday, 13 November, broke silence over the ongoing power tussle in Maharashtra. Shah, speaking to news agency ANI, said that even after making it known that Devendra Fadnavis will be CM if the BJP-Sena alliance wins Maharashtra, their allies have come up with new demands which are unacceptable.
NCP, Cong Meeting to Discuss Common Minimum Programme Underway
NCP-Congress meeting scheduled for today to discuss the Common Minimum Programme is underway. The meeting was earlier reported to have been cancelled.
Shiv Sena Calls President's Rule 'Scripted', Says Fadnavis Shedding 'Crocodile Tears'
The Shiv Sena on Thursday alleged that imposition of President's rule in Maharashtra was a "scripted act" and took a jibe at the governor, saying he has now given parties six months to form government.
It also said that former state chief minister Devendra Fadnavis is shedding "crocodile tears" over the imposition of President's rule as power is still indirectly in the hands of the BJP.
Criticising the governor for giving the Shiv Sena just 24 hours to stake claim and refusing it additional time to muster numbers, an editorial in party mouthpiece 'Saamana' said, "It looked like some invisible power was controlling this game and decisions were taken accordingly."
'Talks with Sena in Preliminary Stage': Congress
Senior Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Thursday said talks for government formation in Maharashtra were at a “preliminary” stage and no decision was taken so far.
Congress leaders Balasaheb Thorat, Ashok Chavan and ManikraoThakare also met Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray at a suburban hotel on Wednesday.
"The Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena have so far held preliminary talks. A meeting will again be held today between the Congress and NCP, and later both the parties are expected to hold talks with the Shiv Sena. There is no decision as yet," Prithviraj Chavan told PTI.
'Shah Knows How to Unite and Break Political Parties': Kapil Sibal
Reacting to Amit shah’s comments on Maharashtra, Congress leader Kapil Sibal, said that the former was ‘very experienced’ in breaking and uniting parties.
“Amit Shah is very experienced as far as these matters are concerned. He knows how to break and how to unite political parties, we have seen glimpses of it in several states - be it in Goa or Karnataka,” he said.
'Did Shah Keep Modi in Dark About Power Sharing Deal?': Sena Lashes Out
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that had BJP president Amit Shah informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the “50:50” seat-sharing formula "in time", Maharashtra would not have been facing the current political impasse.
Reacting to it, Raut said, "Had Shah informed Prime Minister Narendra Modi about this decision of '50:50 formula' in time, we would not have been facing this situation today." "I heard Modi (during poll campaigns) saying that Fadnavis will continue as the chief minister of Maharashtra, but we maintained the decorum and did not object it as we did not see it as a political message to us," he said.
"I wonder whether Modi was kept away by top BJP leaders from the decision taken between the BJP and Shiv Sena over seat-sharing," the Rajya Sabha member said.
Congress, NCP, Sena Hold Parleys to Chalk out CMP
Leaders of the Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena held meetings in Mumbai on Thursday to discuss a 'common minimum programme' before a possible alliance with the Uddhav Thackeray-led party for government formation in Maharashtra.
A draft of the common minimum programme (CMP) will have to be approved by top leaders of the three parties before being finalised, a senior Congress leader told PTI.
"Leaders of the allies Congress-NCP and the Shiv Sena held several parleys to work out a consensus on a common agenda of governance which will be called the CMP," he said.
Some People in Constitutional Posts Acting like BJP Mouthpieces: Mamata
Hitting out at Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari for recommending President's Rule in the state after the assembly polls, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Thursday said some people in constitutional posts are acting like BJP mouthpieces.
These people wish to run a parallel administration in some states, she said.
Banerjee said some nominated persons are exceeding their brief. "They should not supersede the central government. The Centre must take care of this," she said.
"I generally do not comment on constitutional posts, but a few people (governors) are acting just like BJP mouthpieces. In my state too, you have seen what is going on - they want to run a parallel administration," Banerjee said.
'Want Shiv Sena CM for 25 Years': Sanjay Raut
Asked if the chief minister of Shiv Sena will be for full term or the position will be shared with the NCP for 2.5 years, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut said that the party wants a Shiv sena CM to rule for 25 years.
“We want that the chief minister should be from the Shiv Sena for the next 25 years, why are you asking about just the next five years?” he said.
'CM Will Be From Sena': Nawab Malik
NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the Shiv Sena was humiliated in the previous alliance and that the chief minister will be from the Sena in the new alliance with the Congress-NCP.
“We’re being asked over and over again if the chief minister will be from the Shiv Sena or not. The differences between the Shiv Sena and the BJP happened because of the the CM post, so it’s obvious that the CM will be from the Sena. Shiv sena has been humiliated, protecting their self respect is our responsibility,” he said.
Sharad Pawar Speaks on Farmers' Issues
'Government Will Be Formed Soon, It Will Last for 5 Years': Sharad Pawar
Sharad Pawar, while addressing the media said that the talks of government formation are on and the state will get a stable government for five years.
“The process to form government has begun, the government will run for full 5 years,” he said.
Sena-NCP-Cong Leaders to Meet Governor on Saturday
Maharashtra Governor has given Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress leaders time for a meeting tomorrow at 3 pm, to discuss farmers’ issues.
Caretaker CM Fadnavis Meets Governor
Former MaharashtraChief Minister and BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis on Friday called on Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and urged him to release funds for farmers affected by unseasonal rains.
Fadnavis also sought reopening and smooth functioning of the CM Relief Fund through the governor's office to ensure timely help for needy persons as the state was currently under President's rule.
BJP Has 119 Seats, Will form Govt in Maha: Chandrakanth Patil
Maharashtra BJP president, Chandrakant Patil, while addressing the media on Friday, 15 November, said that the BJP has the highest amount of seats (119) and will form the government.
BJP's Confidence of Govt Formation in Maharashtra Hints at Horse-Trading, Alleges Sena
The Shiv Sena alleged on Saturday that the BJP now exuding confidence of forming government in Maharashtra after backing off initially, makes its intention of horse-trading under the guise of President's rule evident.
In its mouthpiece Saamana, Sena also hit out at former chief minister Devendra Fadnavis over his remark that the Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress alliance won't last beyond six months, saying the new political equation was giving "stomach ache to several people".
Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrakant Patil had on Friday said that they will soon form government in the state, claiming that his party can count on support of 119 MLAs in the 288-member Assembly.
"Those with 105 seats had earlier conveyed to the governor that they do not have the majority. How come are they now claiming that only they will form the government?" Sena said in Saamana.
"...the intention of horse-trading stand exposed now. The lies of those promising transparent governance are becoming evident now," it said, adding that "unethical" ways do not suit the tradition of the state.
Out of Power, BJP Afraid Turncoat MLAs May Defect, Says Nawab Malik
The Maharashtra BJP is scared that politicians who joined the party ahead of the 21 October Assembly polls will defect and, hence, its leaders are claiming they will form government in the state, the NCP said on Saturday, 16 November.
NCP chief spokesperson Nawab Malik made the remarks a day after Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrakant Patil said his party will soon form the government and claimed it can count on the support of 119 MLAs, including Independents, in the 288-member Assembly.
Sena, NCP and Congress to Meet Maha Governor at 4:30 PM
A day after the Shiv Sena, the NCP and the Congress agreed on an alliance to form government in Maharashtra, the three parties will meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at 4:30 pm on Saturday, 16 November. The parties will reportedly be discussing farmers' distress and lapses in administration.
As Maha Equations Change, Raut Tweets About 'Naya Mausam'
Amid the current political stalemate in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Saturday cryptically said advent of "new weather" is letting him forget "old pain".
"Yyaaron naye mausam ne ye ahsaan kiya hai. Yaad mujhe dard purane nahi aate (the new weather has done a favour, friends. I do not remember the old pain now)," Raut tweeted the lines of noted Urdu poet Bashir Badr, without naming anyone or any party.
Sena to Skip NDA Meeting
Sena leader Sanjay Raut confirms that the party will not be attending the NDA meeting in Delhi ahead of the winter session of Parliament.
Three-Party Meet With Maha Governor Postponed Until Notice
The meeting between the Maharashtra Governor and the delegation of the three parties has been postponed until further notice, reported ANI. The three parties were reportedly going to meet the Governor at 4:30 pm today.
Sanjay Raut, Anil Desai to Sit in Opposition: Report
The seating arrangement of Shiv Sena MPs – Sanjay Raut and Anil Desai – has now been changes. The two MPs will sit the Opposition, reported ANI quoting Rajya Sabha sources.
Sonia Gandhi, Sharad Pawar Meet on the Cards?
The meet between Sonia Gandhi and NCP supremo Sharad Pawar has been pushed for Monday. The two were earlier scheduled to meet tomorrow.
Will Fulfill Promise Made to Balasaheb, Shiv Sena Will Have CM Soon: Sanjay Raut
On the death anniversary of former Shiv Sena Supremo, senior Sena leaer Sanjay Raut said, “We will do anything for Balasaheb, the government will be formed. The promise which Uddhav ji made to Balasaheb, that there will be a Chief Minister from Shiv Sena...you will soon see that Maharashtra Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena.”
"Whose Government? Shiv Sena!" Slogans Heard as Fadnavis Pays Tribute to Bal Thackeray
As BJP leader and former CM Devendra Fadnavis left after paying tribute to Shiv Sena supremo Bal Thackeray on his death anniversary, slogans of "Sarkar kunauchi? Shiv Sena chi" (Whose government? Shiv Sena's)" were raised by Shiv Sena workers. Shiv Sena and BJP were former allies in the run-up to the 2019 Assembly elections in the state.
Final Decision on Govt Formation in Next Two Days: NCP
The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has said that a final decision on the formation of the next government in Maharashtra by the proposed Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena ally will be taken in the next couple of days.
Nawab Malik, National spokesperson of the NCP, told mediapersons that NCP President Sharad Pawar will meet interim Congress President Sonia Gandhi in New Delhi on Monday, followed by a meeting of the top leaders of both the parties on Tuesday.
"Thereafter, the government formation process will be finalised," Malik said, declining to elaborate.
NCP Chief Sharad Pawar Arrives in Delhi, to Hold Meeting With Sonia Gandhi
NCP Chief Sharad Pawar arrives in Delhi, to hold meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi on Monday, 18 November, according to ANI.
Political Parties Have to Choose Their Path: Sharad Pawar on Govt Formation in Maha
Ahead of his meeting with Congress president Sonia Gandhi, NCP chief Sharad Pawar said that all the political parties seeking to stake claim in forming government in Maharashtra have to “choose their path,” reported PTI.
The Sena had reached out to the Congress-NCP combine for support after its alliance with the BJP collapsed.
Pawar Arrives at Sonia Gandhi's Delhi Residence
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President Sharad Pawar has arrived to meet Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi at her residence, reported ANI.
'Suggested Another Formula to Sena, Will Talk to BJP About It': Ramdas Athawale
Union Minister Ramdas Athawale said, “I had talked to Sanjay Raut about a compromise. I suggested him a formula of 3 years (CM from BJP) and 2 years (CM from Shiv Sena) to which he said that if BJP agrees then Shiv Sena can think about it. I will discuss this with BJP,” reported ANI.
Pawar Reaches His Residence After Meeting Sonia Gandhi
Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar has reached his residence after meeting Congress interim President Sonia Gandhi.
No Discussion on Govt Formation: Pawar After Meeting Sonia Gandhi
NCP’s Sharad Pawar, after meeting with Interim Congress President Sonia Gandhi, said, “We did not discuss government formation in Maharashtra.”
Adding that Gandhi took a stock of the political situation, Pawar, reported ANI, said, “We'll keep a close watch on the ongoings. We'll try to take the opinions of senior leaders of both the parties and decide future course of action. We'll also take into confidence our smaller allies".
He further said, “We're not concerned about what the BJP is doing. We have six months in hand to form a government.”
Sena's Kishori Pednekar to Be Mumbai's Mayor as BJP Backs Out
Kishori Pednekar, a Shiv Sena corporator, has filed nomination papers for the post of Mumbai's mayor. She is the only candidate for the post as the Congress and NCP have not fielded any candidate.
The BJP, earlier in the day, announced that it will not field a candidate for the mayoral polls.
Sanjay Raut Reaches Sharad Pawar's Residence
Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut has arrived at NCP chief Sharad Pawar's residence in Delhi, reported ANI.
'Those Who Responsibility to Form Govt Ran Away': Raut After Meeting Pawar
Shiv Sena’s Sanjay Raut after meeting NCP Chief Sharad Pawar said, “The responsibility to form government was not ours, the ones who had that responsibility ran away, but I am confident that soon we will have a government in place,” reported ANI.
Cong-NCP Meet to Discuss Alliance With Sena Postponed
A meeting with the Congress scheduled on Tuesday to further discuss the possibility of government formation in Maharashtra was called off due to Congress leaders being preoccupied Indira Gandhi's birth anniversary events, NCP leader Nawab Malik said.
He said Congress leaders requested that the meeting be postponed to Wednesday.
The two sides have deputed leaders for holding talks on a possible alliance. Accordingly Mallikarjun Kharge, Ahmed Patel and Congress general secretary K C Venugopal besides some state leaders and Praful Patel, Sunil Tatkare, Ajit Pawar, Jayant Patil of the NCP were to meet to explore the possibility of an alliance with the Shiv Sena in the state.
Sharad Pawar Meets PM Modi in Parliament Premises
Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Parliament premises at 12 pm on Wednesday, 20 November.
Sharad Pawar’s Letter to PM Modi: Urgent Intervention Necessary
Sharad Pawar, in a letter to PM Modi before the meeting, said that he has collected data on crop damage from 2 districts, but the damage because of excessive rains extends to the rest of Maharashtra, including Marathwada and Vidarbha. I'm collecting details and information regarding the same, which should be sent to the PMO at the earliest.
Pawer further said that because of the implementation of Presidential Rule in the state, the Prime Minister’s urgent intervention is highly necessitated. “I shall be grateful, if you take immediate steps to initiate massive relief measures and ameliorate the miseries of the distressed farmers,” Pawar’s letter said.
Cong Leaders Reach Pawar's Residence in Delhi
Congress leaders have arrived at NCP Chief Sharad Pawar's residence in Delhi for a meeting.
Among the Congress leaders who attended the meeting were Ahmed Patel, Jairam Ramesh, Mallikarjun Kharge, Prithviraj Chavan, K C Venugopal and Balasaheb Thorat.
Those representing the NCP included Supriya Sule, Ajit Pawar, Jayant Patil and Nawab Malik, reported PTI.
Talks Over Govt Formation to Continue on 21 Nov: Prithviraj Chavan
Following a meeting between the senior leaders of NCP and Congress, the leaders of the two parties told the media that talks over government formation in the state will continue on Thursday.
"Congress-NCP has had long and positive discussions today. Discussions will continue. I am sure we will be able to give a stable govt to Maharashtra very soon," Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan said. NCP's Nawab Malik was also present at the presser.
Three Parties Will Have to Come Together: Nawab Malik
Speaking to the media, NCP leader Nawab Malik on Wednesday said that three parties will have to come together to form government in Maharashtra.
Following a meeting with Congress leaders, he said that the two parties have "agreed in principle" to form government.
'When 3 Parties Form a Govt, Process is Long': Raut
Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena leader, said “When three parties form a government then the process is long. This process has started today. In the coming days, when the process is completed, a government will be formed in Maharashtra,” reported ANI.
He added that the state wants to see Shiv Sena chief minister.
Maha CM Post to Be on Rotational Basis With Sena for First Half: Sources
The chief minister's post in Maharashtra is most likely to be on a rotational basis, with the first half to be given to the Shiv Sena and the latter half to the Nationalist Congress Party, NCP sources said.
The Congress is likely to have the deputy chief minister's post for the full five-year term, they said, reported PTI.
Hindutva Bodies Warn Sena, BJP Against Tying up With NCP, Cong
A group of Hindutva organisations warned of launching a campaign against Shiv Sena and BJP if any of the two parties join hands with Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra.
Talking to reporters in Pune, Samasta Hindu Aghadi president Milind Ekbote said the BJP and Sena, which have together won 161 seats in the 288-member House, should form a government in the state as soon as possible as fighting between themselves was an “insult” of the people's mandate, reported PTI.
Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena to Meet on Friday: Prithviraj Chavan
Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan, on Wednesday said that Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena would be meeting on Friday.
“Congress leaders and Cong-NCP will meet tomorrow. By evening we will leave for Maharashtra. Day after tomorrow all three parties (Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena) will meet,” Chavan said.
Congress-NCP to Hold Meeting on Government Formation
A key meeting of NCP leaders is underway to discuss the modalities of an alliance with the Shiv Sena for government formation in Maharashtra, party sources said.
In a separate meeting, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) reviewed the political scenario in Maharashtra, a day after it held a marathon meeting with the Nationalist Congress Party on forming an alliance together with Shiv Sena to form a government in the state.
Final Decision on Maharashtra by 23 November, Says Sanjay Raut
A final decision on the new government in Maharashtra will be taken in the next two days, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said on Thursday, 21 November.
He told reporters that there there are no plans of any meeting between Congress president Sonia Gandhi and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray this week.
CWC Gives In-principle Approval to Form Govt With NCP, Shiv Sena in Maharashtra
The Congress Working Committee on Thursday granted in-principle approval to the party to form government in Maharashtra along with the NCP and the Shiv Sena, sources said.
In a meeting chaired by Congress president Sonia Gandhi at her 10, Janpath residence here, the party's highest decision-making body also deliberated on the Maharashtra political scenario, they said.
After the meeting, Congress general secretary K C Venugopal told the media that the Congress Working Committee (CWC) was briefed on the party's discussions with the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Wednesday.
Congress sources said the final decision on the government formation in Maharashtra is expected by Friday.
Nirupam Cautions Cong Against Joining Hands with Sena
Congress leader Sanjay Nirupam on Thursday said it would be a "mistake" on the part of his party if it joins the Shiv Sena-led government being planned in Maharashtra, as it would be akin to "burying" the Grand Old Party in the state.
The former MP also cautioned Congress chief Sonia Gandhi against coming under pressure in this regard.
To drive home his point, Nirupam said the Congress had committed a mistake of joining hands with the BSP in Uttar Pradesh years ago, but ended up losing ground in such a manner that it has still not recovered.
Modalities Finalised on Government Formation: Report
Modalities have been finalised on the formation of the government between the Congress, Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), ANI reported quoting sources.
All the three parties have, in principle, agreed upon ministerial berths according to their strength in the assembly, the sources added.
The Common Minimum Programme (CMP) between Congress and NCP has been sealed and will be discussed with the Shiv Sena on Friday, sources said, according to ANI.
Cong, NCP, Sena may Announce Govt Formation on 22 Nov
With the the final decisions on Common Minimum Programme and other details being sorted out, Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena are likely to announce their coming together on Friday, news agency PTI reported, quoting sources.
The three parties are then likely to send separate letters to the Maharashtra governor mentioning their decision to come together to form a government, PTI reported.
Congress to Elect Legislative Party Leader on Friday
Congress Legislative Party meeting to be held on Friday at Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan, to elect legislative party leader.
Congress, NCP Leaders Meet Again
Congress and NCP leaders held another meeting at Sharad Pawar's residence on Thursday evening.
Maharashtra Power Tussle in Last Lap
Congress' Prithviraj Chavan said that the two parties are on the same page on all matters and will brief the media on the structure of an alliance after holding talks with smaller parties and Shiv Sena on Friday.
Senior Cong Leaders to Meet NCP, Sena on Friday
Congress leaders KC Venugopal, Ahmed Patel and Mallikarjun Kharge will be going to Mumbai on Friday for a meeting with Shiv Sena and NCP for discussion over modalities of government formation in Maharashtra.
Uddhav, Aaditya Thackeray Meet Sharad Pawar at His Residence in Mumbai
Shiv Sena leaders Uddhav Thackeray and Aaditya Thackeray met NCP leader Sharad Pawar at his residence in Mumbai on Thursday evening. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut and NCP leader Ajit Pawar were also present at the meeting.
The meeting took place on a day when Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan said in New Delhi that his party and the NCP have "complete unanimity" on all issues concerning government formation in Maharashtra and will now hold talks with the Shiv Sena to "finalise the architecture of the alliance".
Maharashtra CM Will Be From Shiv Sena, Says Raut
A day after Uddhav Thackeray met NCP president Sharad Pawar, the Shiv Sena on Friday, 22 November, announced that the chief minister will be from their party.