#MaharashtraCrisis: Gadkari confident of Sena's support, Raut denies "resort politics"
In an "ideal" world, BJP and Shiv Sena were supposed to form a government after October 24, address and solve people's issues. But what are they doing? Fighting with each other over power share. In a recent development, two prominent leaders of BJP and Sena have made contrasting remarks. While one said consensus will be reached, another said they won't relent. Here's what happened.
Taking surprise flight, Gadkari landed in Nagpur, sparked speculations
Gadkari, one of the tallest BJP leaders in Maharashtra, took a flight to Nagpur earlier in the day. With this, he sparked speculations that RSS, which is headquartered in Orange City, will play a role in government formation. But Gadkari said this isn't the case and that government will be formed under the leadership of Devendra Fadnavis, who is eyeing a second consecutive term.
No RSS role in Maharashtra, Fadnavis will return: Gadkari
"There will be a decision soon. The government in Maharashtra should be formed under the leadership of Devendra Fadnavis Ji; RSS and Mohan Bhagwat Ji have no connection with this. We will get Shiv Sena's support, we are in talks with them," he told reporters.
Further, Gadkari also clarified he is not in CM race
As row rages, Raut said Sena's MLAs are "united"
While BJP is hoping the logjam resolves soon, Sena has chosen to remain adamant. Sanjay Raut, whose vitriolic attacks against the "elder brother" haven't stopped, said his party's MLAs are "firm" and no one is being shifted to "hotels" to prevent "poaching". "Those who are spreading such rumors should worry about their MLAs first. No one can dare to come near Shiv Sena MLAs," he said.
Speculations suggest Sena MLAs could be shifted near Matoshree
Notably, there's a strong buzz that Sena has decided to park its MLAs at a five-star hotel in Bandra Kurla Complex, just a few minutes away from Thackeray residence Matoshree. BJP needs the support of Sena's 58 MLAs to stake a claim to form the government. Considering the Assembly's expiration date is nearing, BJP will meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari later in the day.
Meanwhile, Sena has left the decision on Thackeray
Separately, Uddhav Thackeray also had a word with his MLAs. At the meeting, the decision was taken that the boss should take the final call. Whether Sena stays with NDA or walks out of it, will be decided by Thackeray.
Separately, Pawar said he wants to see Shah's "skills"
With the allies at loggerheads, the opposition is using the opportunity to target them. NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Wednesday he would like to see how Home President Amit Shah "handles" Maharashtra. He reminded the "troubleshooter" of BJP is yet to visit the western state. Pawar also reiterated that his party will sit in the opposition and respect people's mandate.
