Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Saturday claimed that he will retire from politics once a population control law is initiated.&nbsp;

He referred to the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya and population control as the basic tenets of his political career.&nbsp;

"My task to build Ram Temple in Ayodhya has come to an end. The time has come to retire for people like me. I will retire from politics once a rule to control population growth kicks in," the minister said.

Singh, 67, is infamous for making controversial remarks and had strongly favoured legislation to control the population in the country.

The BJP has a policy of not fielding leaders into elections who are older than 75 years. By that logic, he has eight years before his position in the party is invalidated.&nbsp;

In October this month, Singh participated in a yatra organised to spread awareness regarding population control and called for checking it.

Earlier, in January, the minister suggested that certain communities were especially responsible for the population explosion.

(With inputs from ANI)

Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Saturday claimed that he will retire from politics once a population control law is initiated. He referred to the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya and population control as the basic tenets of his political career.

Union Minister Giriraj Singh on Saturday claimed that he will retire from politics once a population control law is initiated. He referred to the construction of Ram Temple in Ayodhya and population control as the basic tenets of his political career. "My task to build Ram Temple in Ayodhya has come to an end. The time has come to retire for people like me. I will retire from politics once a rule to control population growth kicks in," the minister said. Singh, 67, is infamous for making controversial remarks and had strongly favoured legislation to control the population in the country. The BJP has a policy of not fielding leaders into elections who are older than 75 years. By that logic, he has eight years before his position in the party is invalidated. In October this month, Singh participated in a yatra organised to spread awareness regarding population control and called for checking it. Earlier, in January, the minister suggested that certain communities were especially responsible for the population explosion. (With inputs from ANI)

Will retire from politics as soon as population explosion is curbed: Giriraj Singh

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while inaugurating 15-day-long tribal festival -- Aadi Mahotsav -- here on Saturday, said that Adivasi's welfare was the priority of the Centre.

"The development for the welfare of Adivasi society is the priority of the Central government," Shah said on the occasion, accusing the Congress of pushing the community into darkness.

Shah said the Congress used Adivasis as its vote bank for the last 70 years while lauding the BJP for their development.

"Congress forced Adivasis to remain uneducated and live in darkness. They felled down their jungles to make them homeless," he said.

"The BJP government has provided the community with education, light and home," added Home Minister Shah.

The Home Minister lauded the Adivasi community for preserving the thousand-year-old culture of the country.

Speaking about the fair, Shah said the Aadi Mahotsav was a humble effort to introduce Adivasi culture in the cities of India.

More than 100 Adivasi artisans are taking part in the fair where Adivasi handicraft, arts, festival, martial arts of more than 20 states will be showcased, he said.

Olympian MC Mary Kom and Union Minister Arjun Munda were among the prominent people present on the occasion.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while inaugurating 15-day-long tribal festival -- Aadi Mahotsav -- here on Saturday, said that Adivasi's welfare was the priority of the Centre.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah, while inaugurating 15-day-long tribal festival -- Aadi Mahotsav -- here on Saturday, said that Adivasi's welfare was the priority of the Centre. "The development for the welfare of Adivasi society is the priority of the Central government," Shah said on the occasion, accusing the Congress of pushing the community into darkness. Shah said the Congress used Adivasis as its vote bank for the last 70 years while lauding the BJP for their development. "Congress forced Adivasis to remain uneducated and live in darkness. They felled down their jungles to make them homeless," he said. "The BJP government has provided the community with education, light and home," added Home Minister Shah. The Home Minister lauded the Adivasi community for preserving the thousand-year-old culture of the country. Speaking about the fair, Shah said the Aadi Mahotsav was a humble effort to introduce Adivasi culture in the cities of India. More than 100 Adivasi artisans are taking part in the fair where Adivasi handicraft, arts, festival, martial arts of more than 20 states will be showcased, he said. Olympian MC Mary Kom and Union Minister Arjun Munda were among the prominent people present on the occasion.

Welfare of Adivasis priority of Centre: Amit Shah

Members of the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) protested across major Indian metropolises including New Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai over the scorn faced by the Indian government after their decision to purchase Rafale jets from France in a multi-crore deal.

The party workers demanded apologies&nbsp;from Rahul Gandhi, the former president of the Indian National Congress as well as Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi.

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Maharashtra: BJP holds a protest in Mumbai, demanding an apology from Rahul Gandhi after Supreme Court dismissed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> review petitions. <a href="https://t.co/OQKavfLYUd">pic.twitter.com/OQKavfLYUd</a>
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The protests erupted after the dismissal of Rafale review petitions in the Supreme Court. The court dismissed pleas that sought a review of the December 14, 2018 verdict which gave a clean-shit to the central government. Additionally, the court said that there was no occasion to doubt the decision-making process in how 36 Rafale jets would be procured from Dassault Aviation over time.

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West Bengal: BJP workers tear and deface posters of Rahul Gandhi during a protest in Kolkata demanding an apology from Rahul Gandhi after Supreme Court dismissed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> review petitions. <a href="https://t.co/3WfILLgV78">pic.twitter.com/3WfILLgV78</a>
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According to ANI, BJP workers in Kolkata tore and defaced posters of Rahul Gandhi while urgently demanding an apology.

Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrakant Patil joined the increasing demands for an apology from Rahul Gandhi and said, "Rahul Gandhi should apologise to PM Modi for creating an issue over the deal and accusing him of false things. After the court's verdict, Rahul Gandhi apologized in the Supreme Court. He must now apologise to the public as well". 
 
Meanwhile, Rahul on Thursday reiterated Congress' demand for an investigation by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the Rafale fighter jet deal with France.

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Delhi: BJP workers and leaders holds a protest outside AAP office, demanding an apology from Arvind Kejriwal after Supreme Court dismissed <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Rafale?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Rafale</a> review petitions. <a href="https://t.co/01i2Z4KXlo">pic.twitter.com/01i2Z4KXlo</a>
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Additionally, BJP workers in Delhi stormed the offices of both the Congress as well as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Outside the AAP office, party workers demanded an apology from Arvind Kejriwal, another prominent voice of criticism during the Rafale debacle.

(With inputs from ANI)

Members of the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) protested across major Indian metropolises including New Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai over the scorn faced by the Indian government after their decision to purchase Rafale jets from France in a multi-crore deal.

Members of the Bharatiya Janta Party (BJP) protested across major Indian metropolises including New Delhi, Kolkata, and Mumbai over the scorn faced by the Indian government after their decision to purchase Rafale jets from France in a multi-crore deal. The party workers demanded apologies from Rahul Gandhi, the former president of the Indian National Congress as well as Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi. Maharashtra: BJP holds a protest in Mumbai, demanding an apology from Rahul Gandhi after Supreme Court dismissed #Rafale review petitions. pic.twitter.com/OQKavfLYUd — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2019 × The protests erupted after the dismissal of Rafale review petitions in the Supreme Court. The court dismissed pleas that sought a review of the December 14, 2018 verdict which gave a clean-shit to the central government. Additionally, the court said that there was no occasion to doubt the decision-making process in how 36 Rafale jets would be procured from Dassault Aviation over time. West Bengal: BJP workers tear and deface posters of Rahul Gandhi during a protest in Kolkata demanding an apology from Rahul Gandhi after Supreme Court dismissed #Rafale review petitions. pic.twitter.com/3WfILLgV78 — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2019 × According to ANI, BJP workers in Kolkata tore and defaced posters of Rahul Gandhi while urgently demanding an apology. Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrakant Patil joined the increasing demands for an apology from Rahul Gandhi and said, "Rahul Gandhi should apologise to PM Modi for creating an issue over the deal and accusing him of false things. After the court's verdict, Rahul Gandhi apologized in the Supreme Court. He must now apologise to the public as well". Meanwhile, Rahul on Thursday reiterated Congress' demand for an investigation by a Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC) into the Rafale fighter jet deal with France. Delhi: BJP workers and leaders holds a protest outside AAP office, demanding an apology from Arvind Kejriwal after Supreme Court dismissed #Rafale review petitions. pic.twitter.com/01i2Z4KXlo — ANI (@ANI) November 16, 2019 × Additionally, BJP workers in Delhi stormed the offices of both the Congress as well as the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP). Outside the AAP office, party workers demanded an apology from Arvind Kejriwal, another prominent voice of criticism during the Rafale debacle. (With inputs from ANI)

Rafale deal: BJP holds protests countrywide demanding apologies from Rahul Gandhi, others

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said here on Thursday that whosoever forms government in Maharashtra, the developmental projects and policies rolled by the previous regime would not be interrupted.

"I feel that there will be no difference. In Indian experience, in our democracy, the governments are changed but there is no problem with the projects and they continue," said Nitin Gadkari.

"I don't know which government will come. Any government whether NCP, Congress, BJP or Shiv Sena they will support the positive policies, the development policies and the big projects," he added.

When asked about the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra, Gadkari said that anything can happen as he drew parallels with cricket and politics. "Anything can happen in cricket and politics. Sometimes you feel you are losing the match, but the result is exactly the opposite. Also, I have just arrived from Delhi, I don't know the detailed politics of Maharashtra,&nbsp;he said."

Leaders of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena, who are having talks to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra, have prepared a draft Common Minimum Programme (CMP) which will now be sent to senior leaderships of three parties.

BJP, which emerged the single-largest party with 105 seats in 288-member assembly, expressed its inability to form the government after logjam with Shiv Sean which insisted on an equal share of power and the post of Chief Minister for half-term. The state <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-placed-under-presidents-rule-after-parties-fail-to-claim-power-261610">Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari </a>later gave time to both Shiv Sena and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-power-tussle-ncp-says-in-no-hurry-will-decide-on-supporting-shiv-sena-261653">NCP</a>&nbsp;which also expressed their inability to form the government within the given time-frame.&nbsp;

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said here on Thursday that whosoever forms government in Maharashtra, the developmental projects and policies rolled by the previous regime would not be interrupted.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said here on Thursday that whosoever forms government in Maharashtra, the developmental projects and policies rolled by the previous regime would not be interrupted. "I feel that there will be no difference. In Indian experience, in our democracy, the governments are changed but there is no problem with the projects and they continue," said Nitin Gadkari. "I don't know which government will come. Any government whether NCP, Congress, BJP or Shiv Sena they will support the positive policies, the development policies and the big projects," he added. When asked about the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra, Gadkari said that anything can happen as he drew parallels with cricket and politics. "Anything can happen in cricket and politics. Sometimes you feel you are losing the match, but the result is exactly the opposite. Also, I have just arrived from Delhi, I don't know the detailed politics of Maharashtra, he said." Leaders of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena, who are having talks to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra, have prepared a draft Common Minimum Programme (CMP) which will now be sent to senior leaderships of three parties. BJP, which emerged the single-largest party with 105 seats in 288-member assembly, expressed its inability to form the government after logjam with Shiv Sean which insisted on an equal share of power and the post of Chief Minister for half-term. The state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari later gave time to both Shiv Sena and NCP which also expressed their inability to form the government within the given time-frame.

Whichever group forms govt in Maharashtra, developmental work will continue: Nitin Gadkari

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hold countrywide protests on Friday against Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-slams-rahul-gandhi-over-chowkidar-chor-hai-remark-rafale-claims-after-sc-verdict-demands-apology-262036">Rahul Gandhi </a>and his party for "misleading" the country on Rafale deal.

The BJP leaders will hold protests outside All India Congress Committee office in Delhi and other Congress offices in other parts of the country demanding an apology from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on Rafale.

A party release signed by general secretary Arun Singh said that Congress and Rahul Gandhi gave 'false', 'fabricated'&nbsp;and 'undignified'&nbsp;statements on Rafale deal. The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the review petitions challenging its verdict in the Rafale case passed on December 14, 2018, upholding the 36 Rafale jets deal.

A three-judge bench presided by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and KM Joseph passed the order on a batch of petitions seeking review of its December 14, 2018 verdict which had upheld purchase of <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/supreme-court-dismisses-rafale-review-petitions-261965">36 Rafale jets </a>by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government from France.

The apex court closed the contempt petition filed by BJP lawmaker Meenakshi Lekhi against Rahul Gandhi for his remarks. The Supreme Court accepted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's apology for wrongly attributing his infamous "chowkidar chor hai" remark in Rafale case to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opined that a person holding a place of importance in political spectrum should have been more careful."Rahul Gandhi needs to be more careful in the future. It was unfortunate," a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices SK Kaul and KM Joseph said in their verdict.&nbsp;

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hold countrywide protests on Friday against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and his party for "misleading" the country on Rafale deal.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) will hold countrywide protests on Friday against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and his party for "misleading" the country on Rafale deal. The BJP leaders will hold protests outside All India Congress Committee office in Delhi and other Congress offices in other parts of the country demanding an apology from Congress leader Rahul Gandhi over his remarks on Rafale. A party release signed by general secretary Arun Singh said that Congress and Rahul Gandhi gave 'false', 'fabricated' and 'undignified' statements on Rafale deal. The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed the review petitions challenging its verdict in the Rafale case passed on December 14, 2018, upholding the 36 Rafale jets deal. A three-judge bench presided by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and comprising Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and KM Joseph passed the order on a batch of petitions seeking review of its December 14, 2018 verdict which had upheld purchase of 36 Rafale jets by Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government from France. The apex court closed the contempt petition filed by BJP lawmaker Meenakshi Lekhi against Rahul Gandhi for his remarks. The Supreme Court accepted Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's apology for wrongly attributing his infamous "chowkidar chor hai" remark in Rafale case to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opined that a person holding a place of importance in political spectrum should have been more careful."Rahul Gandhi needs to be more careful in the future. It was unfortunate," a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices SK Kaul and KM Joseph said in their verdict.

BJP to hold nationwide protests against Rahul Gandhi over claims on Rafale deal

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that his party wants to rule Maharashtra for the next 25 years.

''We want to rule Maharashtra for 25 years and you are talking about five years,'' Shiv Sena leader was quoted as saying when asked&nbsp;whether the party is eyeing the post of chief ministership for 2.5 or 5 years.

He also said that Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have finalised the draft of the Common Minimum Programme in the interests of the people of the state after several consultations over the last 48 hours.

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Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on being asked 'if Shiv Sena CM will be for 5 years or CM will be for 2.5 years each from NCP and Shiv Sena?': Hum toh chahte hain aane wale 25 saal tak Shiv Sena ka CM rahe, aap 5 saal ki baat kyun karte ho. <a href="https://t.co/ZH69LUDoTG">pic.twitter.com/ZH69LUDoTG</a>
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Three weeks after election results were announced on October 24, the new government is likely to be formed in Maharahstra soon.&nbsp;NCP leader Sharad Pawar on Friday said that the process to form government in the state has begun and it would run for full 5 years.

Meanwhile, NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the CM will be from Shiv Sena. "Shiv Sena has been insulted, so it is our responsibility to fight for their self-respect", Malik added.

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Nawab Malik, NCP: Sawaal baar-baar poocha ja raha hai ki Shiv Sena ka CM hoga kya?CM ke post ko leke hi Shiv Sena-BJP ke beech mein vivaad hua, toh nishchit roop se CM Shiv Sena ka hoga. Shiv Sena ko apmanit kiya gaya hai, unka swabhimaan banaye rakhna hamari zimmedari banti hai. <a href="https://t.co/qHiVoFoRlR">pic.twitter.com/qHiVoFoRlR</a>
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On November 12, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-placed-under-presidents-rule-after-parties-fail-to-claim-power-261610">President's rule </a>was implemented in Maharashtra after BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP failed to form government in the time period allotted to them.

In the Assembly elections that were held on October 21 in Maharashtra, BJP won the maximum number of seats 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress won 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. A majority of 144 seats is required to form government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that his party wants to rule Maharashtra for the next 25 years. ''We want to rule Maharashtra for 25 years and you are talking about five years,'' Shiv Sena leader was quoted as saying when asked whether the party is eyeing the post of chief ministership for 2.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that his party wants to rule Maharashtra for the next 25 years. ''We want to rule Maharashtra for 25 years and you are talking about five years,'' Shiv Sena leader was quoted as saying when asked whether the party is eyeing the post of chief ministership for 2.5 or 5 years. He also said that Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have finalised the draft of the Common Minimum Programme in the interests of the people of the state after several consultations over the last 48 hours. Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on being asked 'if Shiv Sena CM will be for 5 years or CM will be for 2.5 years each from NCP and Shiv Sena?': Hum toh chahte hain aane wale 25 saal tak Shiv Sena ka CM rahe, aap 5 saal ki baat kyun karte ho. pic.twitter.com/ZH69LUDoTG — ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2019 × Three weeks after election results were announced on October 24, the new government is likely to be formed in Maharahstra soon. NCP leader Sharad Pawar on Friday said that the process to form government in the state has begun and it would run for full 5 years. Meanwhile, NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the CM will be from Shiv Sena. "Shiv Sena has been insulted, so it is our responsibility to fight for their self-respect", Malik added. Nawab Malik, NCP: Sawaal baar-baar poocha ja raha hai ki Shiv Sena ka CM hoga kya?CM ke post ko leke hi Shiv Sena-BJP ke beech mein vivaad hua, toh nishchit roop se CM Shiv Sena ka hoga. Shiv Sena ko apmanit kiya gaya hai, unka swabhimaan banaye rakhna hamari zimmedari banti hai. pic.twitter.com/qHiVoFoRlR — ANI (@ANI) November 15, 2019 × On November 12, President's rule was implemented in Maharashtra after BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP failed to form government in the time period allotted to them. In the Assembly elections that were held on October 21 in Maharashtra, BJP won the maximum number of seats 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress won 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. A majority of 144 seats is required to form government in Maharashtra. (with inputs from agencies)

'We want to rule Maharashtra for 25 years,' says Sanjay Raut as Shiv Sena closes in on deal with Congress, NCP

As talks are going on between Shiv Sena, Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) to form a non-BJP government in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-want-a-cm-from-shiv-sena-for-25-years-sanjay-raut-on-maharashtra-power-struggle-262273">Maharashtra</a>, NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the chief minister will be from Shiv Sena only.

"Sawaal baar-baar poocha ja raha hai ki Shiv Sena ka CM hoga kya?CM ke post ko leke hi Shiv Sena-BJP ke beech mein vivaad hua, toh nishchit roop se CM Shiv Sena ka hoga. Shiv Sena ko apmanit kiya gaya hai, unka swabhimaan banaye rakhna hamari zimmedari banti hai. (Question is being asked continuously whether the Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena? Differences came up between Shiv Sena and BJP due to the Chief Minister's post, so definitely Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena. Shiv Sena has been insulted, it is our responsibility to maintain their self-respect)," Malik told ANI here.

Malik said that the leaders of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have finalized its draft of the Common Minimum Programme and the said draft has already been sent to the top leadership of all three political parties and now it is under their consideration." Soon there will be a decision on it," Malik said.

"Our Common Minimum Programme basically includes the issue of farmers, loan waiver, Job creation to youngsters etc," he added.

Malik said that looking at the current farmers'&nbsp;issues in Maharashtra, the parties are of the view of forming a "stable government as soon as possible."

Asked about former chief minister Devendra Fadnavis's&nbsp;comment that there is no alternative than BJP in Maharashtra to form the government, Malik said, "Devendra Fadnavis is now a former chief minister and he is reacting like a lost General of the Army who is falsely encouraging his Army to fight in the battlefield. There is no chance of BJP forming government in the state because BJP doesn't have the required number to form the government."

On Thursday, leaders from Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress held a meeting to finalise its draft of Common Minimum Programme.

Maharashtra came under President's Rule after no party was able to show numbers to form a government after the assembly polls. The BJP and Shiv Sena, who fought the polls together, got an absolute majority but could not form a government due to differences over power-sharing.BJP, which emerged the single-largest party with 105 seats in 288-member assembly, expressed its inability to form the government. The state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari later asked Shiv Sena and NCP about their intent and ability to form the government. Both parties sought more time. NCP and Congress fought the elections in an alliance.&nbsp;

As talks are going on between Shiv Sena, Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra, NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the chief minister will be from Shiv Sena only.

As talks are going on between Shiv Sena, Congress and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra, NCP leader Nawab Malik said that the chief minister will be from Shiv Sena only. "Sawaal baar-baar poocha ja raha hai ki Shiv Sena ka CM hoga kya?CM ke post ko leke hi Shiv Sena-BJP ke beech mein vivaad hua, toh nishchit roop se CM Shiv Sena ka hoga. Shiv Sena ko apmanit kiya gaya hai, unka swabhimaan banaye rakhna hamari zimmedari banti hai. (Question is being asked continuously whether the Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena? Differences came up between Shiv Sena and BJP due to the Chief Minister's post, so definitely Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena. Shiv Sena has been insulted, it is our responsibility to maintain their self-respect)," Malik told ANI here. Malik said that the leaders of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have finalized its draft of the Common Minimum Programme and the said draft has already been sent to the top leadership of all three political parties and now it is under their consideration." Soon there will be a decision on it," Malik said. "Our Common Minimum Programme basically includes the issue of farmers, loan waiver, Job creation to youngsters etc," he added. Malik said that looking at the current farmers' issues in Maharashtra, the parties are of the view of forming a "stable government as soon as possible." Asked about former chief minister Devendra Fadnavis's comment that there is no alternative than BJP in Maharashtra to form the government, Malik said, "Devendra Fadnavis is now a former chief minister and he is reacting like a lost General of the Army who is falsely encouraging his Army to fight in the battlefield. There is no chance of BJP forming government in the state because BJP doesn't have the required number to form the government." On Thursday, leaders from Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress held a meeting to finalise its draft of Common Minimum Programme. Maharashtra came under President's Rule after no party was able to show numbers to form a government after the assembly polls. The BJP and Shiv Sena, who fought the polls together, got an absolute majority but could not form a government due to differences over power-sharing.BJP, which emerged the single-largest party with 105 seats in 288-member assembly, expressed its inability to form the government. The state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari later asked Shiv Sena and NCP about their intent and ability to form the government. Both parties sought more time. NCP and Congress fought the elections in an alliance.

Maharashtra CM will be from Shiv Sena, says senior NCP leader

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict,15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday in the presence of Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa here.

Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming bypolls which are slated to be held on December 5.

Baig did not attend the joining program held at the party office here. According to sources, he was not allowed to take membership of BJP due to the IMA Ponzi scam and allegations against him in RSS worker Rudresh's murder case.

"We didn't come out of the coalition government just to save the state from evil politics. We came out of Congress and JD(S) and joined BJP, it's not anti-defection, it's political polarisation. We will stand with BJP leaders and we will work along with them as they have given us a chance to work along with them. I thank you all including Prime Minister, Home Minister and BJP working president JP Nadda," said H Vishwanath, one of the 17 disqualified MLAs.

The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The move led to the collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition government, paving way for BJP to stake claim to form a new government in the state.

The disgruntled MLAs then moved the apex court challenging their disqualification. They sought quashing of the order passed by the Speaker and prohibition imposed on them to contest elections. The matter was reserved by the court on October 25. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5.&nbsp;

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict,15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday in the presence of Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa here.

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict,15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) joined the Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday in the presence of Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa here. Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming bypolls which are slated to be held on December 5. Baig did not attend the joining program held at the party office here. According to sources, he was not allowed to take membership of BJP due to the IMA Ponzi scam and allegations against him in RSS worker Rudresh's murder case. "We didn't come out of the coalition government just to save the state from evil politics. We came out of Congress and JD(S) and joined BJP, it's not anti-defection, it's political polarisation. We will stand with BJP leaders and we will work along with them as they have given us a chance to work along with them. I thank you all including Prime Minister, Home Minister and BJP working president JP Nadda," said H Vishwanath, one of the 17 disqualified MLAs. The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state. The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The move led to the collapse of the Congress-JD(S) coalition government, paving way for BJP to stake claim to form a new government in the state. The disgruntled MLAs then moved the apex court challenging their disqualification. They sought quashing of the order passed by the Speaker and prohibition imposed on them to contest elections. The matter was reserved by the court on October 25. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5.

15 disqualified Karnataka MLAs join BJP

The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed petitions seeking review of its December 14, 2018 verdict which had upheld purchase of 36 Rafale fighter jets by the Indian government and observed that it is not their function to determine the prices of jets.

A three-judge bench presided by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi dismissed the pleas as they were bereft of 'merit'.

A batch of petitions, filed by former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha, Arun Shourie, lawyer Prashant Bhushan and others, sought CBI probe into the purchase of Rafale jets.

The review was sought on the grounds that judgment contained several errors.

The bench, also comprising Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and K M Joseph, further held that matter cannot be dealt with because of "mere suspicion" by the petitioners.

"Insofar as the aspect of pricing is concerned, the court satisfied itself with the material made available. It is not the function of this Court to determine the prices," the bench observed.

The top court added, "On the perusal of documents we had found that one cannot compare apples and oranges. Thus, the pricing of the basic aircraft had to be compared which was competitively marginally lower. As to what should be loaded on the aircraft or not and what further pricing should be added has to be left to the best judgment of the competent authorities."

The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed petitions seeking review of its December 14, 2018 verdict which had upheld purchase of 36 Rafale fighter jets by the Indian government and observed that it is not their function to determine the prices of jets.

The Supreme Court on Thursday dismissed petitions seeking review of its December 14, 2018 verdict which had upheld purchase of 36 Rafale fighter jets by the Indian government and observed that it is not their function to determine the prices of jets. A three-judge bench presided by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi dismissed the pleas as they were bereft of 'merit'. A batch of petitions, filed by former Union ministers Yashwant Sinha, Arun Shourie, lawyer Prashant Bhushan and others, sought CBI probe into the purchase of Rafale jets. The review was sought on the grounds that judgment contained several errors. The bench, also comprising Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and K M Joseph, further held that matter cannot be dealt with because of "mere suspicion" by the petitioners. "Insofar as the aspect of pricing is concerned, the court satisfied itself with the material made available. It is not the function of this Court to determine the prices," the bench observed. The top court added, "On the perusal of documents we had found that one cannot compare apples and oranges. Thus, the pricing of the basic aircraft had to be compared which was competitively marginally lower. As to what should be loaded on the aircraft or not and what further pricing should be added has to be left to the best judgment of the competent authorities."

Rafale deal verdict: Not our function to determine fighter jet’s prices, says Supreme Court

A day after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sc-upholds-disqualification-of-rebel-mlas-permits-them-to-contest-bypolls-261738">Supreme Court</a> permitted the disqualified Congress and JD(S) MLAs to contest the impending&nbsp; Karnataka bypolls on December 5, the Bharatiya Janata Party has released an official statement mentioning that 16 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in the state are all set to join the ruling&nbsp;BJP on Thursday, which excludes the name of&nbsp;Roshan Baig.

On Wednesday, sources shared that the BJP is open to the prospect of fielding all 17 disqualified Karnataka MLAs for the upcoming bypolls in the state. The top leadership, including chief Amit Shah and working president JP Nadda, have given their go-ahead for fielding the disqualified MLAs from their erstwhile seats, sources said.

The decision was reportedly taken at a high-level meeting held today, in which senior state leaders were also present. The by-polls in the state will be held on 15 out of the 17 seats on December 5. According to sources,&nbsp;Roshan Baig's name could not be included in BJP till he gets a clean chit in IMA Ponzi scam.

In the Karnataka elections, BJP had emerged as the largest party with 105 seats but failed to secure a majority in the 225-members assembly. The party is expecting that the by-polls on the 15 seats will boost their tally in the state. The 14-month old Congress-JD(S) coalition government, led by Kumaraswamy collapsed in July this year following a series of resignations from MLAs paving way for the BJP, which was the single largest party to form the government in Karnataka.

 
&nbsp;

A day after the Supreme Court permitted the disqualified Congress and JD(S) MLAs to contest the impending Karnataka bypolls on December 5, the Bharatiya Janata Party has released an official statement mentioning that 16 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in the state are all set to join the ruling BJP on Thursday, which excludes the name of Roshan Baig.

A day after the Supreme Court permitted the disqualified Congress and JD(S) MLAs to contest the impending Karnataka bypolls on December 5, the Bharatiya Janata Party has released an official statement mentioning that 16 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in the state are all set to join the ruling BJP on Thursday, which excludes the name of Roshan Baig. On Wednesday, sources shared that the BJP is open to the prospect of fielding all 17 disqualified Karnataka MLAs for the upcoming bypolls in the state. The top leadership, including chief Amit Shah and working president JP Nadda, have given their go-ahead for fielding the disqualified MLAs from their erstwhile seats, sources said. The decision was reportedly taken at a high-level meeting held today, in which senior state leaders were also present. The by-polls in the state will be held on 15 out of the 17 seats on December 5. According to sources, Roshan Baig's name could not be included in BJP till he gets a clean chit in IMA Ponzi scam. In the Karnataka elections, BJP had emerged as the largest party with 105 seats but failed to secure a majority in the 225-members assembly. The party is expecting that the by-polls on the 15 seats will boost their tally in the state. The 14-month old Congress-JD(S) coalition government, led by Kumaraswamy collapsed in July this year following a series of resignations from MLAs paving way for the BJP, which was the single largest party to form the government in Karnataka.

BJP says Karnataka's 16 disqualified MLAs set to join party

The Supreme Court on Thursday closed a contempt case against Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-slams-rahul-gandhi-over-chowkidar-chor-hai-remark-rafale-claims-after-sc-verdict-demands-apology-262036">Rahul Gandhi</a> for his "chowkidar chor hai" (Watchman is the thief) remark with a "word of caution" to him and observed that no court should be dragged into political discourse.

A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi closed the contempt petition and accepted Rahul Gandhi's apology for wrongly attributing his infamous "chowkidar chor hai" remark in Rafale case to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opined that a person holding a place of importance in political spectrum should have been more careful.

"We would not like to continue these proceedings further and, thus, close the contempt proceedings with a word of caution for the contemnor to be more careful in the future. No court should be dragged into this political discourse," the apex court stated in the verdict.

The comments were made by Gandhi in pursuant to the top court's order on the Rafale deal. Gandhi, who was then the president of the Congress party, allegedly said that the apex court had accepted that "chowkidar"&nbsp;(a reference to Prime Minister Modi), is a "chor"&nbsp;(thief).

BJP lawmaker Meenakshi Lekhi accused Gandhi of misquoting the court and filed a contempt petition. Gandhi had then tendered an unconditional apology to the court and sought closure of the contempt proceedings against him. The bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, today observed that Gandhi made allegations without verification.

"The contemnor (Rahul Gandhi) deemed it appropriate to make statements as if this Court had given an imprimatur to his allegations against the Prime Minister, which was far from the truth," the bench said.

The top court said that initially Gandhi did not accept his mistake or tendered an apology, but later during the course of proceedings, a "better wisdom" dawned on him.

The Supreme Court on Thursday closed a contempt case against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his "chowkidar chor hai" (Watchman is the thief) remark with a "word of caution" to him and observed that no court should be dragged into political discourse.

The Supreme Court on Thursday closed a contempt case against Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for his "chowkidar chor hai" (Watchman is the thief) remark with a "word of caution" to him and observed that no court should be dragged into political discourse. A three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi closed the contempt petition and accepted Rahul Gandhi's apology for wrongly attributing his infamous "chowkidar chor hai" remark in Rafale case to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and opined that a person holding a place of importance in political spectrum should have been more careful. "We would not like to continue these proceedings further and, thus, close the contempt proceedings with a word of caution for the contemnor to be more careful in the future. No court should be dragged into this political discourse," the apex court stated in the verdict. The comments were made by Gandhi in pursuant to the top court's order on the Rafale deal. Gandhi, who was then the president of the Congress party, allegedly said that the apex court had accepted that "chowkidar" (a reference to Prime Minister Modi), is a "chor" (thief). BJP lawmaker Meenakshi Lekhi accused Gandhi of misquoting the court and filed a contempt petition. Gandhi had then tendered an unconditional apology to the court and sought closure of the contempt proceedings against him. The bench, also comprising Justices S K Kaul and K M Joseph, today observed that Gandhi made allegations without verification. "The contemnor (Rahul Gandhi) deemed it appropriate to make statements as if this Court had given an imprimatur to his allegations against the Prime Minister, which was far from the truth," the bench said. The top court said that initially Gandhi did not accept his mistake or tendered an apology, but later during the course of proceedings, a "better wisdom" dawned on him.

Court should not be dragged into political discourse: Supreme Court on Rahul Gandhi contempt case

Soon after 15 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in Karnataka joined the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/15-disqualified-karnataka-mlas-join-bjp-261991">Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)</a> here, state Chief Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yediyurappa-should-call-all-party-meet-to-discuss-rcep-implications-siddaramaiah-258228">BS Yediyurappa </a>said that the ruling party will win on all 15 Assembly constituencies, where by-elections are slated to be held on December 5.

"They have sacrificed many things after Supreme Court's verdict now they have joined BJP. I welcome all leaders and their supporters who joined. We will stand on our promises, we will never ditch you," Yediyurappa said.

"It's our responsibility as workers to make them win. We will organise a huge program and we will facilitate them (disqualified MLAs). We will win 100 per cent for sure in all 15 constituencies. Small issues in between workers must be ignored. All our 26 MPs will work as in-charges in by-polls," he added.

The Chief Minister went on to add that the national leadership is with them, so "we don't need to be worried."

"Our aim is to make sure our MLAs win. 17 members who joined us they should win. Some were worried about the new party and working style, I have promised them that we will work for their winning. You are our future MLAs, Ministers, so no need to be worried," he said.

Meanwhile, Saravana, husband of an independent corporator Mamatha, also joined BJP. He was earlier a Congress supporter.

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict, 15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party today.

Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming by-polls which are slated to be held on December 5.

The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker K R Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker K R Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023.

The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. Soon after 15 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in Karnataka joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here, state Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said that the ruling party will win on all 15 Assembly constituencies, where by-elections are slated to be held on December 5.

"They have sacrificed many things after Supreme Court's verdict now they have joined BJP. I welcome all leaders and their supporters who joined. We will stand on our promises, we will never ditch you," Yediyurappa said.

"It's our responsibility as workers to make them win. We will organise a huge program and we will facilitate them (disqualified MLAs). We will win 100 per cent for sure in all 15 constituencies. Small issues in between workers must be ignored. All our 26 MPs will work as in-charges in by-polls," he added.

The Chief Minister went on to add that the national leadership is with them, so "we don't need to be worried."

"Our aim is to make sure our MLAs win. 17 members who joined us they should win. Some were worried about the new party and working style, I have promised them that we will work for their winning. You are our future MLAs, Ministers, so no need to be worried," he said.

Meanwhile, Saravana, husband of an independent corporator Mamatha, also joined BJP. He was earlier a Congress supporter.

A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict, 15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party today.

Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming by-polls which are slated to be held on December 5.

The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker K R Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker K R Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023.

The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5.

Soon after 15 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in Karnataka joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here, state Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said that the ruling party will win on all 15 Assembly constituencies, where by-elections are slated to be held on December 5.

Soon after 15 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in Karnataka joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here, state Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said that the ruling party will win on all 15 Assembly constituencies, where by-elections are slated to be held on December 5. "They have sacrificed many things after Supreme Court's verdict now they have joined BJP. I welcome all leaders and their supporters who joined. We will stand on our promises, we will never ditch you," Yediyurappa said. "It's our responsibility as workers to make them win. We will organise a huge program and we will facilitate them (disqualified MLAs). We will win 100 per cent for sure in all 15 constituencies. Small issues in between workers must be ignored. All our 26 MPs will work as in-charges in by-polls," he added. The Chief Minister went on to add that the national leadership is with them, so "we don't need to be worried." "Our aim is to make sure our MLAs win. 17 members who joined us they should win. Some were worried about the new party and working style, I have promised them that we will work for their winning. You are our future MLAs, Ministers, so no need to be worried," he said. Meanwhile, Saravana, husband of an independent corporator Mamatha, also joined BJP. He was earlier a Congress supporter. A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict, 15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party today. Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming by-polls which are slated to be held on December 5. The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker K R Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state. The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker K R Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. Soon after 15 out of 17 disqualified MLAs in Karnataka joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) here, state Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa said that the ruling party will win on all 15 Assembly constituencies, where by-elections are slated to be held on December 5. "They have sacrificed many things after Supreme Court's verdict now they have joined BJP. I welcome all leaders and their supporters who joined. We will stand on our promises, we will never ditch you," Yediyurappa said. "It's our responsibility as workers to make them win. We will organise a huge program and we will facilitate them (disqualified MLAs). We will win 100 per cent for sure in all 15 constituencies. Small issues in between workers must be ignored. All our 26 MPs will work as in-charges in by-polls," he added. The Chief Minister went on to add that the national leadership is with them, so "we don't need to be worried." "Our aim is to make sure our MLAs win. 17 members who joined us they should win. Some were worried about the new party and working style, I have promised them that we will work for their winning. You are our future MLAs, Ministers, so no need to be worried," he said. Meanwhile, Saravana, husband of an independent corporator Mamatha, also joined BJP. He was earlier a Congress supporter. A day after Supreme Court's Karnataka verdict, 15 out of 17 disqualified rebel MLAs, including those from Congress and JD(S) had joined the Bharatiya Janata Party today. Out of the 17 disqualified MLAs, MTB Nagaraj is already a member of the BJP, while Roshan Baig has been left out. The top court has allowed 17 disqualified rebel MLAs to contest in the upcoming by-polls which are slated to be held on December 5. The Supreme Court had on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then Karnataka speaker K R Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law but said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state. The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker K R Ramesh Kumar in July earlier this year under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5.

We will win for sure in all 15 constituencies: BS Yediyurappa

After the Supreme court dismissed the review petition on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-dismisses-rafale-review-petitions-261965">Rafale deal</a>, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders slammed senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and demanded an apology to him.

Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad lashed at Gandhi for "lying" about the Rafale deal. He said that Rahul not only dragged Dassault and Reliance, the companies that were involved in the agreement, but also former presidents of France.

"Earlier he (Rahul Gandhi) created furore saying that PM Modi gave the deal to Reliance, then Dassault said that decision is taken by them not the&nbsp;Indian government,"&nbsp;Prasad said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Ravi Shankar Prasad, BJP: Rahul Gandhi lied in the Parliament that France President Emmanuel Macron told him that the deal can be disclosed. Rahul Gandhi not only used Reliance and Dassault in his lies but also the current and former Presidents of France. (2/2) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaleVerdict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaleVerdict</a> <a href="https://t.co/AIPjpyvJEU">https://t.co/AIPjpyvJEU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194898502351872002?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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JP Nadda, BJP working president also slammed Gandhi and demanded an apology. "Rahul Gandhi and his party tried hard to mislead the country on this issue but the truth prevailed," the BJP working president said.&nbsp;

"Rahul Gandhi should an offer apology&nbsp;to the nation," Nadda demanded.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh did not take any names but said that matters related to defence should not be politicised. He also slammed Congress party for&nbsp;maligning the image of PM Modi and demanded an apology.

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Rajnath Singh: I think matters related to defence preparedness shouldn't be politicised,unfortunately some people did it for personal benefits.They also tried to malign Prime Minister.I would like to say that it was done especially by some senior Congress leaders. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RafaleVerdict?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RafaleVerdict</a> <a href="https://t.co/ioLt0G62NL">https://t.co/ioLt0G62NL</a> <a href="https://t.co/oMqMHrgC6O">pic.twitter.com/oMqMHrgC6O</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194887584893136898?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The apex court earlier today rejected the review petitions that challenged its verdict passed on December 14, 2018 in the 36 Rafale jets deal. The review petition questioned the procurement of Rafale jets from the French government.&nbsp;

The top court also closed a contempt petition filed by senior BJP lawmaker Meenakshi Lekhi against Rahul Gandhi for his comments of "chowkidar chor hai" attributing to PM Narendra Modi. Rahul Gandhi apologised for his comments to the Indian PM.

"Rahul Gandhi needs to be more careful in the future. It was unfortunate," a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices SK Kaul and KM Joseph said while announcing their verdict.

"The Supreme Court has said that he (Rahul Gandhi) is a contemptner and a better sense should prevail. Keeping that in mind, a better methodology of doing politics should prevail and Congress should know how not to be intolerant of others who are doing better than them," Lekhi said after 
the apex court's judgment.

After the Supreme court dismissed the review petition on Rafale deal, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders slammed senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and demanded an apology to him.

After the Supreme court dismissed the review petition on Rafale deal, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders slammed senior Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and demanded an apology to him. Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad lashed at Gandhi for "lying" about the Rafale deal. He said that Rahul not only dragged Dassault and Reliance, the companies that were involved in the agreement, but also former presidents of France. "Earlier he (Rahul Gandhi) created furore saying that PM Modi gave the deal to Reliance, then Dassault said that decision is taken by them not the Indian government," Prasad said. Ravi Shankar Prasad, BJP: Rahul Gandhi lied in the Parliament that France President Emmanuel Macron told him that the deal can be disclosed. Rahul Gandhi not only used Reliance and Dassault in his lies but also the current and former Presidents of France. (2/2) #RafaleVerdict https://t.co/AIPjpyvJEU — ANI (@ANI) November 14, 2019 × JP Nadda, BJP working president also slammed Gandhi and demanded an apology. "Rahul Gandhi and his party tried hard to mislead the country on this issue but the truth prevailed," the BJP working president said. "Rahul Gandhi should an offer apology to the nation," Nadda demanded. Defence minister Rajnath Singh did not take any names but said that matters related to defence should not be politicised. He also slammed Congress party for maligning the image of PM Modi and demanded an apology. Rajnath Singh: I think matters related to defence preparedness shouldn't be politicised,unfortunately some people did it for personal benefits.They also tried to malign Prime Minister.I would like to say that it was done especially by some senior Congress leaders. #RafaleVerdict https://t.co/ioLt0G62NL pic.twitter.com/oMqMHrgC6O — ANI (@ANI) November 14, 2019 × The apex court earlier today rejected the review petitions that challenged its verdict passed on December 14, 2018 in the 36 Rafale jets deal. The review petition questioned the procurement of Rafale jets from the French government. The top court also closed a contempt petition filed by senior BJP lawmaker Meenakshi Lekhi against Rahul Gandhi for his comments of "chowkidar chor hai" attributing to PM Narendra Modi. Rahul Gandhi apologised for his comments to the Indian PM. "Rahul Gandhi needs to be more careful in the future. It was unfortunate," a three-judge bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justices SK Kaul and KM Joseph said while announcing their verdict. "The Supreme Court has said that he (Rahul Gandhi) is a contemptner and a better sense should prevail. Keeping that in mind, a better methodology of doing politics should prevail and Congress should know how not to be intolerant of others who are doing better than them," Lekhi said after the apex court's judgment.

BJP slams Rahul Gandhi over Rafale claims after SC verdict, demands apology

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah should have raised objections when Uddhav Thackeray announced that the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra will be from Shiv Sena during the election rallies.

He also slammed the Home Minister for not briefing Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the closed-door talks which were held between Shah and Thackeray pertaining to the power-sharing.

"I agree that PM Modi used to project Devendra Fadnavis as the next chief minister of Maharashtra but at the same time, Uddhav Thackeray was also telling the public that the next chief minister will be from Shiv Sena. Then at that time why didn't Amit Shah raised any objection. He did not say anything during the Lok Sabha election then why is he having a problem in Vidhan Sabha elections," the Shiv Sena said while speaking to media in Mumbai.

"Amit Bhai use to say that the matters discussed in the closed room should not be discussed outside. But when they do not comply with mutual decisions, the matters become the topic of discussion outdoors. Shah should have briefed the Prime Minister. Our Prime Minister has a big heart and the matter would not have become worse if he was updated with the latest talks," he added.

The statement from Raut came just a day after Amit Shah stated that it will be inappropriate to disclose the deliberations that were held "behind closed doors" between his party and Shiv Sena over government formation in Maharashtra.

Maharashtra came under the president's rule on Tuesday. The President signed the notification following the recommendation of the Union Cabinet, which acted on the report from Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The Governor had recommended the imposition of president's rule in the wake of the political stalemate over the government formation in the state. Shiv Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray emerged as the second-largest party in last month's Maharashtra assembly elections with 56 seats. The two parties, who fought the elections together, were at loggerheads over power-sharing.

The BJP emerged as the single-largest party with 105 seats in the 288-member state assembly. Shiv Sena insisted that the two parties had a '50-50' power-sharing agreement before the elections. Fadnavis said that Shiv Sena was not promised the chief ministerial post for two-and-a-half years when the alliance was sealed before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah should have raised objections when Uddhav Thackeray announced that the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra will be from Shiv Sena during the election rallies.

Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Thursday said that Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Amit Shah should have raised objections when Uddhav Thackeray announced that the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra will be from Shiv Sena during the election rallies. He also slammed the Home Minister for not briefing Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the closed-door talks which were held between Shah and Thackeray pertaining to the power-sharing. "I agree that PM Modi used to project Devendra Fadnavis as the next chief minister of Maharashtra but at the same time, Uddhav Thackeray was also telling the public that the next chief minister will be from Shiv Sena. Then at that time why didn't Amit Shah raised any objection. He did not say anything during the Lok Sabha election then why is he having a problem in Vidhan Sabha elections," the Shiv Sena said while speaking to media in Mumbai. "Amit Bhai use to say that the matters discussed in the closed room should not be discussed outside. But when they do not comply with mutual decisions, the matters become the topic of discussion outdoors. Shah should have briefed the Prime Minister. Our Prime Minister has a big heart and the matter would not have become worse if he was updated with the latest talks," he added. The statement from Raut came just a day after Amit Shah stated that it will be inappropriate to disclose the deliberations that were held "behind closed doors" between his party and Shiv Sena over government formation in Maharashtra. Maharashtra came under the president's rule on Tuesday. The President signed the notification following the recommendation of the Union Cabinet, which acted on the report from Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The Governor had recommended the imposition of president's rule in the wake of the political stalemate over the government formation in the state. Shiv Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray emerged as the second-largest party in last month's Maharashtra assembly elections with 56 seats. The two parties, who fought the elections together, were at loggerheads over power-sharing. The BJP emerged as the single-largest party with 105 seats in the 288-member state assembly. Shiv Sena insisted that the two parties had a '50-50' power-sharing agreement before the elections. Fadnavis said that Shiv Sena was not promised the chief ministerial post for two-and-a-half years when the alliance was sealed before the 2019 Lok Sabha polls.

'Why didn't Amit Shah object when Uddhav announced that next CM will be from Sena?' asks Sanjay Raut

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, his senior Congress colleague and state party chief Balasaheb Thorat will be paying a visit to Sanjay Raut who is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Mumbai.

Congress leader Manikrao Thakre will also be accompanying them to meet the Shiv Sena leader. Raut was admitted to the Lilavati hospital on November 11 following a complaint of chest pain. Earlier on Tuesday, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray also met him at the hospital.

He has been instrumental in reaching out to various leaders in a bid to garner support for Shiv Sena for the government formation in Maharashtra.

Over a fortnight after the declaration of Assembly election results, Maharashtra came under the President`s Rule on Tuesday as the political stalemate continued in the state.

Shiv Sena, which has been keen on a party nominee becoming chief minister, moved the Supreme Court against Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari`s decision to not extend the time given to it to prove its ability to form the government in the state.

Senior Sena leader and former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Manohar Joshi and NCP Chief Sharad Pawar have also met Raut in the hospital.

NCP and Congress have indicated that they were not in a hurry to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra in the wake of the imposition of President`s Rule and said they will sort out all issues among themselves and their allies before talking to Shiv Sena.

Congress and NCP had fought the assembly polls together. BJP had emerged as the single-largest party with 105 seats and Shiv Sena had finished second with 56 seats in 288-member assembly.&nbsp;

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, his senior Congress colleague and state party chief Balasaheb Thorat will be paying a visit to Sanjay Raut who is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Mumbai.

Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Ashok Chavan, his senior Congress colleague and state party chief Balasaheb Thorat will be paying a visit to Sanjay Raut who is undergoing treatment at a hospital in Mumbai. Congress leader Manikrao Thakre will also be accompanying them to meet the Shiv Sena leader. Raut was admitted to the Lilavati hospital on November 11 following a complaint of chest pain. Earlier on Tuesday, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray also met him at the hospital. He has been instrumental in reaching out to various leaders in a bid to garner support for Shiv Sena for the government formation in Maharashtra. Over a fortnight after the declaration of Assembly election results, Maharashtra came under the President`s Rule on Tuesday as the political stalemate continued in the state. Shiv Sena, which has been keen on a party nominee becoming chief minister, moved the Supreme Court against Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari`s decision to not extend the time given to it to prove its ability to form the government in the state. Senior Sena leader and former Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Manohar Joshi and NCP Chief Sharad Pawar have also met Raut in the hospital. NCP and Congress have indicated that they were not in a hurry to form a non-BJP government in Maharashtra in the wake of the imposition of President`s Rule and said they will sort out all issues among themselves and their allies before talking to Shiv Sena. Congress and NCP had fought the assembly polls together. BJP had emerged as the single-largest party with 105 seats and Shiv Sena had finished second with 56 seats in 288-member assembly.

Congress' Ashok Chavan to visit Sanjay Raut in hospital

The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law and said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

"We are upholding the order of the Speaker," said Justice Ramana while reading out the judgment. The top court said that resignation does not take away the power of disqualification by the speaker. "Since we are deciding disqualification, resignation is not needed to be gone into. As such there is no doubt that disqualification has nothing to do with resignation," the court said.

The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar in July under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The move had led to a fall of the Congress-JD (S) coalition government, paving way for BJP to stake claim to form a new government in the state.

The disgruntled MLAs then moved the apex court challenging their disqualification. They sought quashing of the order passed by the speaker and prohibition imposed on them to contest elections.

The matter was reserved by the court on October 25. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. They were earlier scheduled to be conducted on October 21 but were deferred by the Election Commission (EC) as the petitions of disqualified MLAs were pending in the top court.

The poll body had withheld the elections for two seats -- Maski and Rajarajeshwari -- as the petitions against these Assembly constituencies are pending in the Karnataka High Court.

After their&nbsp;disqualification, the strength of the 224-member Assembly had come down to 207. This had brought down the majority mark to 104. The BJP, which helms the government in the state, has 106 MLAs in the Assembly. With the by-poll elections, the majority mark will climb to 222 and the BJP will have to win a minimum of six out of fifteen seats to keep its majority.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law and said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state.

The Supreme Court on Wednesday upheld the decision of the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar to disqualify 17 rebel Congress-JD(S) MLAs under the anti-defection law and said that they can contest the upcoming by-elections in the state. "We are upholding the order of the Speaker," said Justice Ramana while reading out the judgment. The top court said that resignation does not take away the power of disqualification by the speaker. "Since we are deciding disqualification, resignation is not needed to be gone into. As such there is no doubt that disqualification has nothing to do with resignation," the court said. The rebel legislators were disqualified by the then speaker KR Ramesh Kumar in July under the anti-defection law after they tendered their resignation. They were also barred from contesting polls for the duration of the current assembly, which is slated to end in 2023. The move had led to a fall of the Congress-JD (S) coalition government, paving way for BJP to stake claim to form a new government in the state. The disgruntled MLAs then moved the apex court challenging their disqualification. They sought quashing of the order passed by the speaker and prohibition imposed on them to contest elections. The matter was reserved by the court on October 25. The elections for 15 out of 17 seats are slated to be held on December 5. They were earlier scheduled to be conducted on October 21 but were deferred by the Election Commission (EC) as the petitions of disqualified MLAs were pending in the top court. The poll body had withheld the elections for two seats -- Maski and Rajarajeshwari -- as the petitions against these Assembly constituencies are pending in the Karnataka High Court. After their disqualification, the strength of the 224-member Assembly had come down to 207. This had brought down the majority mark to 104. The BJP, which helms the government in the state, has 106 MLAs in the Assembly. With the by-poll elections, the majority mark will climb to 222 and the BJP will have to win a minimum of six out of fifteen seats to keep its majority.

SC upholds disqualification of Karnataka's rebel MLAs, permits them to contest bypolls

Union minister Prakash Javadekar was given the additional charge of the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises on Tuesday, just hours after Shiv Sena MP <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-resigning-from-my-ministerial-post-shiv-senas-arvind-sawant-quits-modi-cabinet-261251">Arvind Sawant stepped down</a> from the post citing moral grounds.

President Ram Nath Kovind in the earlier accepted Sawant`s resignation and allocated the ministry to Javadekar who is already heading two other ministries,&nbsp;Information and Broadcasting, and Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

The Shiv Sena MP on Monday resigned from the Union cabinet after his party <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-government-formation-meeting-underway-between-uddhav-thackeray-sharad-pawar-261406">walked away from NDA</a> over the power-sharing agreement in Maharashtra.

"I took oath on May 30 as Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises. BJP went back from their pre-election promises. During Lok Sabha elections, it was discussed that there would be equal sharing of power including the chief ministerial post. BJP is denying this now," he had told reporters in the national capital.

"It would not have been morally right for me to continue in the Centre as a new government is about to form in Maharashtra. So I have submitted my resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he had added.

BJP has cleared that it would not be forming government in Maharashtra owing to its relations with its ally Shiv Sena that turned bitter after Assembly polls.

Shiv Sena has asked for the Chief Ministerial post, a demand which was turned down by BJP which is the single largest party in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Union minister Prakash Javadekar was given the additional charge of the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises on Tuesday, just hours after Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant stepped down from the post citing moral grounds.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar was given the additional charge of the Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises on Tuesday, just hours after Shiv Sena MP Arvind Sawant stepped down from the post citing moral grounds. President Ram Nath Kovind in the earlier accepted Sawant`s resignation and allocated the ministry to Javadekar who is already heading two other ministries, Information and Broadcasting, and Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The Shiv Sena MP on Monday resigned from the Union cabinet after his party walked away from NDA over the power-sharing agreement in Maharashtra. "I took oath on May 30 as Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises. BJP went back from their pre-election promises. During Lok Sabha elections, it was discussed that there would be equal sharing of power including the chief ministerial post. BJP is denying this now," he had told reporters in the national capital. "It would not have been morally right for me to continue in the Centre as a new government is about to form in Maharashtra. So I have submitted my resignation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi," he had added. BJP has cleared that it would not be forming government in Maharashtra owing to its relations with its ally Shiv Sena that turned bitter after Assembly polls. Shiv Sena has asked for the Chief Ministerial post, a demand which was turned down by BJP which is the single largest party in Maharashtra.

Prakash Javadekar gets charge of heavy industries as Arvind Sawant quits

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday said that although the party has been with the Bharatiya Janata Party for many years, this time around "it has to go with Congress-NCP".&nbsp;

"We'll hold further talks with both of them," Thackeray told media today.&nbsp;

Thackeray stated that his party needed more time to prove support to be able to form the government in Maharashtra but the same was not granted by the Governor.&nbsp;

"Yesterday we formally requested Congress-NCP for their support to form the government. We needed 48 hours, but the Governor didn't give us time," he said.

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Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena: BJP-Shiv Sena were together for many yrs but now Shiv Sena has to go with Congress-NCP. We'll hold further talks with both of them. I would like to thank Arvind Sawant, many people have lust for ministerial post but he isn't like that. Proud of him. <a href="https://t.co/oxCKaPRUYR">pic.twitter.com/oxCKaPRUYR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194263778252054528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Thackeray-led Shiv Sena has 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 the government. Advocate Sunil Fernandez filed the plea for Shiv Sena.

Meanwhile, top brass of the Nationalist Congress Party on Tuesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-power-tussle-ncp-says-in-no-hurry-will-decide-on-supporting-shiv-sena-261653">held talks with senior Congress leaders</a> in Mumbai on the ongoing impasse over government formation in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

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Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena chief: Yesterday we formally requested Congress-NCP for their support to form the government. We needed 48 hours, but the Governor didn't give us time. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/2XL0YRallL">https://t.co/2XL0YRallL</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194262490797899776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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NCP chief, Sharad Pawar, told media that the party is in no hurry and will further discuss with Congress on the move to support Shiv Sena to form the government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Mumbai: Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray reacts to a question 'Is the BJP option completely finished?'. Says, "Why are you in such a hurry? It's politics. 6 months time has been given (President's Rule). I didn't finish the BJP option, it was BJP itself which did that..." <a href="https://t.co/3pew41hMuF">pic.twitter.com/3pew41hMuF</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194266310831738880?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"We are in no hurry. We will hold discussions with Congress and then take a decision (to support Shiv Sena)," Pawar said.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Maharashtra was placed under the President's Rule after political parties like the BJP, the Shiv Sena and the NCP failed to claim power in the state.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday said that although the party has been with the Bharatiya Janata Party for many years, this time around "it has to go with Congress-NCP".

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday said that although the party has been with the Bharatiya Janata Party for many years, this time around "it has to go with Congress-NCP". "We'll hold further talks with both of them," Thackeray told media today. Thackeray stated that his party needed more time to prove support to be able to form the government in Maharashtra but the same was not granted by the Governor. "Yesterday we formally requested Congress-NCP for their support to form the government. We needed 48 hours, but the Governor didn't give us time," he said. Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena: BJP-Shiv Sena were together for many yrs but now Shiv Sena has to go with Congress-NCP. We'll hold further talks with both of them. I would like to thank Arvind Sawant, many people have lust for ministerial post but he isn't like that. Proud of him. pic.twitter.com/oxCKaPRUYR — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × Thackeray-led Shiv Sena has 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 the government. Advocate Sunil Fernandez filed the plea for Shiv Sena. Meanwhile, top brass of the Nationalist Congress Party on Tuesday held talks with senior Congress leaders in Mumbai on the ongoing impasse over government formation in Maharashtra. Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena chief: Yesterday we formally requested Congress-NCP for their support to form the government. We needed 48 hours, but the Governor didn't give us time. #Maharashtra https://t.co/2XL0YRallL — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × NCP chief, Sharad Pawar, told media that the party is in no hurry and will further discuss with Congress on the move to support Shiv Sena to form the government in Maharashtra. #WATCH Mumbai: Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray reacts to a question 'Is the BJP option completely finished?'. Says, "Why are you in such a hurry? It's politics. 6 months time has been given (President's Rule). I didn't finish the BJP option, it was BJP itself which did that..." pic.twitter.com/3pew41hMuF — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × "We are in no hurry. We will hold discussions with Congress and then take a decision (to support Shiv Sena)," Pawar said. Earlier in the day, Maharashtra was placed under the President's Rule after political parties like the BJP, the Shiv Sena and the NCP failed to claim power in the state.

Will hold further talks with Congress, NCP: Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray

Top brass of the Nationalist Congress Party on Tuesday held talks with senior Congress leaders in Mumbai on the ongoing impasse over government formation in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

NCP chief, Sharad Pawar, told media that the party is in no hurry and will further discuss with Congress on the move to support Shiv Sena to form the government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

"We are in no hurry. We will hold discussions with Congress and then take a decision (to support Shiv Sena)," Pawar said.&nbsp;

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NCP Chief Sharad Pawar: We are in no hurry. We will hold discussions with Congress and then take a decision (to support Shiv Sena). <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaharashtraGovtFormation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaharashtraGovtFormation</a> <a href="https://t.co/MYYYgEpKv0">pic.twitter.com/MYYYgEpKv0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194257855710318593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said, "We will hold discussions with Shiv Sena after we hold discussions with our ally". Patel also expressed dissatisfaction over the imposition of President's Rule in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Patel also condemned the fact that Congress did not get an invite from the Governor to form the government when Shiv Sena, the BJP and the NCP did.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Maharashtra was placed under the President's Rule after political parties like the BJP, the Shiv Sena and the NCP failed to claim power in the state.

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Congress leader Ahmed Patel: We will hold discussions with Shiv Sena after we hold discussions with our ally. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> <a href="https://t.co/0A6z2ohYwm">https://t.co/0A6z2ohYwm</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194257200652271621?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the Maharashtra Governor was of the view that the imposition of President's Rule was better in a situation where none of the political parties are been able to form the government.&nbsp;

"Maharashtra Governor was of the view that it has been 15 days since the conclusion of electoral process and none of the political parties are in the position to form a government in the state; President's Rule is a better option," the spokesperson said as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

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Shiv Sena's lawyer Sunil Fernandes says, "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" <a href="https://t.co/iezTlar2jy">https://t.co/iezTlar2jy</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194246027122864130?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The move comes after Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari recommended President’s Rule in the state and sent a report to the Centre earlier in the day.&nbsp;

Maharashtra Governor Koshyari had given time to the NCP till 8.30pm today to prove that it has the numbers after the Shiv Sena on Monday failed to get letters of support before the deadline set by the Governor who rejected its plea for three more days to do so.

Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena has 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 the government. Advocate Sunil Fernandez filed the plea for Shiv Sena.

Shiv Sena said that the matter could be posted before the court tomorrow 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," Fernandes said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Top brass of the Nationalist Congress Party on Tuesday held talks with senior Congress leaders in Mumbai on the ongoing impasse over government formation in Maharashtra.

Top brass of the Nationalist Congress Party on Tuesday held talks with senior Congress leaders in Mumbai on the ongoing impasse over government formation in Maharashtra. NCP chief, Sharad Pawar, told media that the party is in no hurry and will further discuss with Congress on the move to support Shiv Sena to form the government in Maharashtra. "We are in no hurry. We will hold discussions with Congress and then take a decision (to support Shiv Sena)," Pawar said. NCP Chief Sharad Pawar: We are in no hurry. We will hold discussions with Congress and then take a decision (to support Shiv Sena). #MaharashtraGovtFormation pic.twitter.com/MYYYgEpKv0 — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said, "We will hold discussions with Shiv Sena after we hold discussions with our ally". Patel also expressed dissatisfaction over the imposition of President's Rule in Maharashtra. Patel also condemned the fact that Congress did not get an invite from the Governor to form the government when Shiv Sena, the BJP and the NCP did. Earlier in the day, Maharashtra was placed under the President's Rule after political parties like the BJP, the Shiv Sena and the NCP failed to claim power in the state. Congress leader Ahmed Patel: We will hold discussions with Shiv Sena after we hold discussions with our ally. #Mumbai https://t.co/0A6z2ohYwm — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the Maharashtra Governor was of the view that the imposition of President's Rule was better in a situation where none of the political parties are been able to form the government. "Maharashtra Governor was of the view that it has been 15 days since the conclusion of electoral process and none of the political parties are in the position to form a government in the state; President's Rule is a better option," the spokesperson said as reported by news agency ANI. Shiv Sena's lawyer Sunil Fernandes says, "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" https://t.co/iezTlar2jy — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × The move comes after Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari recommended President’s Rule in the state and sent a report to the Centre earlier in the day. Maharashtra Governor Koshyari had given time to the NCP till 8.30pm today to prove that it has the numbers after the Shiv Sena on Monday failed to get letters of support before the deadline set by the Governor who rejected its plea for three more days to do so. Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena has 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 the government. Advocate Sunil Fernandez filed the plea for Shiv Sena. Shiv Sena said that the matter could be posted before the court tomorrow 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," Fernandes said. (With inputs from ANI)

Maharashtra power tussle: NCP says, 'in no hurry, will decide on supporting Shiv Sena'

Maharashtra has been placed under the President's Rule after political parties like the BJP, the Shiv Sena and the NCP <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-governor-recommends-presidents-rule-in-state-report-261565">failed to claim power in the state</a>. President Ram Nath Kovind has given his approval for the same, news agency ANI reported.

Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the Maharashtra Governor was of the view that the imposition of President's Rule was better in a situation where none of the political parties are been able to form the government.&nbsp;

"Maharashtra Governor was of the view that it has been 15 days since the conclusion of electoral process and none of the political parties are in the position to form a government in the state; President's Rule is a better option," the spokesperson said as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

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President's Rule imposed in the state of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a>, after the approval of President Ram Nath Kovind. <a href="https://t.co/tR3qW4xYbR">pic.twitter.com/tR3qW4xYbR</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1194225014800695296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The move comes after Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari recommended President’s Rule in the state and sent a report to the Centre earlier in the day.&nbsp;

Maharashtra Governor Koshyari had given time to the NCP till 8.30pm today to prove that it has the numbers after the Shiv Sena on Monday failed to get letters of support before the deadline set by the Governor who rejected its plea for three more days to do so.

Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena has 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 the government. Advocate Sunil Fernandez has filed the plea for Shiv Sena.

After BJP, which gained 105 seats in the Assembly polls, failed to form the government, Shiv Sena was asked to form the government. Shiv Sena asked the governor two-days to for submitting 'requisite' letters of support from other political parties. However, the governor refused. Following which, the governor asked NCP to form the government.

The NCP has 54 MLAs while its alliance partner Congress has 44. If Shiv Sena, which had 56 legislators, gets the support of NCP and Congress, it will easily cross the majority mark of 145 in the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly.&nbsp;

NCP leaders, today evening, met with senior Congress leaders in Mumbai. A decision on government formation is likely after the meeting concludes, Nationalist Congress Party leader Nawab Malik said.&nbsp;

Maharashtra has been placed under the President's Rule after political parties like the BJP, the Shiv Sena and the NCP failed to claim power in the state. President Ram Nath Kovind has given his approval for the same, news agency ANI reported.

Maharashtra has been placed under the President's Rule after political parties like the BJP, the Shiv Sena and the NCP failed to claim power in the state. President Ram Nath Kovind has given his approval for the same, news agency ANI reported. Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs stated that the Maharashtra Governor was of the view that the imposition of President's Rule was better in a situation where none of the political parties are been able to form the government. "Maharashtra Governor was of the view that it has been 15 days since the conclusion of electoral process and none of the political parties are in the position to form a government in the state; President's Rule is a better option," the spokesperson said as reported by news agency ANI. President's Rule imposed in the state of #Maharashtra, after the approval of President Ram Nath Kovind. pic.twitter.com/tR3qW4xYbR — ANI (@ANI) November 12, 2019 × The move comes after Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari recommended President’s Rule in the state and sent a report to the Centre earlier in the day. Maharashtra Governor Koshyari had given time to the NCP till 8.30pm today to prove that it has the numbers after the Shiv Sena on Monday failed to get letters of support before the deadline set by the Governor who rejected its plea for three more days to do so. Meanwhile, Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena has 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 the government. Advocate Sunil Fernandez has filed the plea for Shiv Sena. After BJP, which gained 105 seats in the Assembly polls, failed to form the government, Shiv Sena was asked to form the government. Shiv Sena asked the governor two-days to for submitting 'requisite' letters of support from other political parties. However, the governor refused. Following which, the governor asked NCP to form the government. The NCP has 54 MLAs while its alliance partner Congress has 44. If Shiv Sena, which had 56 legislators, gets the support of NCP and Congress, it will easily cross the majority mark of 145 in the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly. NCP leaders, today evening, met with senior Congress leaders in Mumbai. A decision on government formation is likely after the meeting concludes, Nationalist Congress Party leader Nawab Malik said.

Maharashtra placed under President's rule after parties fail to claim power

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader NV Subhash on Tuesday said that AIMIM chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-is-indeed-supreme-but-not-infallible-asaduddin-owaisi-on-ayodhya-verdict-260968">Asaduddin Owaisi</a> has given an inflammatory statement against the Supreme Court`s <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/ayodhya-verdict-a-matter-of-faith-261053">Ayodhya verdict </a>just to serve his own agenda and to disrupt the unity of the country.

"Owaisi has given an inflammatory speech to spread communal hatred after the landmark Supreme Court judgement. Instead of welcoming the verdict, he has his own agendas and is trying to disrupt the unity and diversity of the country," Subhash told ANI.

A <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/case-filed-against-aimim-chief-asaduddin-owaisi-for-allegedly-making-provocative-statements-on-ayodhya-verdict-261426">complaint has been filed</a> against the Hyderabad MP for his controversial remarks.

The BJP leader said that the Supreme Court has, in a historic and landmark judgment, resolved a centuries-old dispute.

"The judgement was unanimous. All the Supreme Court judges in the matter gave a unanimous statement. This is an example of an inclusive view of the entire society. Everyone in the society has welcomed the verdict in the matter," he said.

Subhash said that several people of the Muslim community have welcomed the Supreme Court verdict but Owaisi is only trying to "insult his own community".

"He is setting a platform for not protecting the interest of the country. As an MP, he has taken an oath to protect the constitution and the people of the country. But he has insulted his community by saying that they don`t want the land on a charity basis," he said.

He urged the police to file an FIR in the matter on an immediate basis.

The BJP leader said Owaisi has taken a lot of land on a charity basis in Hyderabad and this act shows the double standard of him.

"Owaisi has taken so much land in and around Hyderabad from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh government. The institutions run by him, like the medical college, engineering college and hospitals are all built on land taken by the government on a charity. The land value is very high but you have taken the land from the government for a very small amount," Subhash added.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader NV Subhash on Tuesday said that AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has given an inflammatory statement against the Supreme Court`s Ayodhya verdict just to serve his own agenda and to disrupt the unity of the country.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader NV Subhash on Tuesday said that AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi has given an inflammatory statement against the Supreme Court`s Ayodhya verdict just to serve his own agenda and to disrupt the unity of the country. "Owaisi has given an inflammatory speech to spread communal hatred after the landmark Supreme Court judgement. Instead of welcoming the verdict, he has his own agendas and is trying to disrupt the unity and diversity of the country," Subhash told ANI. A complaint has been filed against the Hyderabad MP for his controversial remarks. The BJP leader said that the Supreme Court has, in a historic and landmark judgment, resolved a centuries-old dispute. "The judgement was unanimous. All the Supreme Court judges in the matter gave a unanimous statement. This is an example of an inclusive view of the entire society. Everyone in the society has welcomed the verdict in the matter," he said. Subhash said that several people of the Muslim community have welcomed the Supreme Court verdict but Owaisi is only trying to "insult his own community". "He is setting a platform for not protecting the interest of the country. As an MP, he has taken an oath to protect the constitution and the people of the country. But he has insulted his community by saying that they don`t want the land on a charity basis," he said. He urged the police to file an FIR in the matter on an immediate basis. The BJP leader said Owaisi has taken a lot of land on a charity basis in Hyderabad and this act shows the double standard of him. "Owaisi has taken so much land in and around Hyderabad from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh government. The institutions run by him, like the medical college, engineering college and hospitals are all built on land taken by the government on a charity. The land value is very high but you have taken the land from the government for a very small amount," Subhash added.

Owaisi made inflammatory remarks on Ayodhya verdict to serve his own agenda: BJP

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - November 11th, 2019

BJP opts out of Maharashtra govt race despite being single largest party. Watch video to know more.

BJP opts out of Maharashtra govt race despite being single largest party

Maharashtra: All clear for Shiv Sena to form govt? Watch video to know more,

Maharashtra: All clear for Shiv Sena to form govt?

After days of political bickering, there seems to be some headway to the political stalemate in the western state of Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Congress and NCP have decided to lend support to Shiv Sena and will soon give it a letter of support.&nbsp;

Worli MP Aaditya Thackeray reached the Raj Bhavan along with a Shiv Sena delegation and met Governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari.

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Aaditya Thackeray, Eknath Shinde and other Shiv Sena leaders meet Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/EKWeO8URAz">pic.twitter.com/EKWeO8URAz</a>
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According to sources, Shiv Sena's Udhav Thackeray will stake a claim as the chief minister while Ajit Pawar of the NCP will be the deputy chief minister of the state.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena's MP Arvind Sawant has announced his resignation as a minister in prime minister Narendra Modi's government.

Ahead of the NCP meet, party supremo Sharad Pawar said that any decision regarding government formation will only be made after discussion with ally congress.

The Shiv Sena was on Sunday invited by Maharashtra governor to form the government in the state after the BJP said it would not stake claim to power.

The political deadlock had emerged after BJP alliance partner Shiv Sena demanded the chief minister's post for the government's half term.

The BJP had completely sidelined this demand by the Shiv Sena&nbsp;instead of offering Shiv Sena with the post of deputy chief minister.&nbsp;

Yesterday the Bharatiya Janata Party said that it will not stake a claim to form the government in the state.

Caretaker chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and other BJP leaders announced their decision after meeting with the governor, Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The reason cited by the BJP is that it lacks the required numbers to form the government.

Maharashtra BJP president Chandrakant Patil has said that the Shiv Sena has betrayed the people's mandate.

For now, turf has now become clear for the Shiv Sena to form the government.

As per sources, Shiv Sena has got the support of Sharad Pawar-led national congress party.

The Indian National Congress, on the other hand, will be providing outside support to the coalition government.

The majority mark in Maharashtra is 145.

The Shiv Sena, Congress and the NCP together will have a total strength of 154 seats in the state assembly which is well over the majority figure.

(With inputs from agencies)

After days of political bickering, there seems to be some headway to the political stalemate in the western state of Maharashtra. Congress and NCP have decided to lend support to Shiv Sena and will soon give it a letter of support.

After days of political bickering, there seems to be some headway to the political stalemate in the western state of Maharashtra. Congress and NCP have decided to lend support to Shiv Sena and will soon give it a letter of support. Worli MP Aaditya Thackeray reached the Raj Bhavan along with a Shiv Sena delegation and met Governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari. Aaditya Thackeray, Eknath Shinde and other Shiv Sena leaders meet Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai. #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/EKWeO8URAz — ANI (@ANI) November 11, 2019 × According to sources, Shiv Sena's Udhav Thackeray will stake a claim as the chief minister while Ajit Pawar of the NCP will be the deputy chief minister of the state. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena's MP Arvind Sawant has announced his resignation as a minister in prime minister Narendra Modi's government. Ahead of the NCP meet, party supremo Sharad Pawar said that any decision regarding government formation will only be made after discussion with ally congress. The Shiv Sena was on Sunday invited by Maharashtra governor to form the government in the state after the BJP said it would not stake claim to power. The political deadlock had emerged after BJP alliance partner Shiv Sena demanded the chief minister's post for the government's half term. The BJP had completely sidelined this demand by the Shiv Sena instead of offering Shiv Sena with the post of deputy chief minister. Yesterday the Bharatiya Janata Party said that it will not stake a claim to form the government in the state. Caretaker chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and other BJP leaders announced their decision after meeting with the governor, Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The reason cited by the BJP is that it lacks the required numbers to form the government. Maharashtra BJP president Chandrakant Patil has said that the Shiv Sena has betrayed the people's mandate. For now, turf has now become clear for the Shiv Sena to form the government. As per sources, Shiv Sena has got the support of Sharad Pawar-led national congress party. The Indian National Congress, on the other hand, will be providing outside support to the coalition government. The majority mark in Maharashtra is 145. The Shiv Sena, Congress and the NCP together will have a total strength of 154 seats in the state assembly which is well over the majority figure. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra government formation: Sena leaders meet governor after Congress extends support

BJP leader Prasad Lal on Monday asked Shiv Sena to prove the majority as it has decided to part ways with NDA alliance.

"Shiv Sena should prove their majority if they can. We have cleared our stand yesterday. We have refused to form the government as Shiv Sena declined to support us. Now, Shiv Sena should tell its future strategy," he told reporters here.

After BJP failed to form the government, Shiv Sena was<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-governor-invites-shive-sena-to-stake-claim-in-government-formation-after-bjp-refuses-261219"> asked by Governor</a> Bhagat Singh Koshiyari to express its ability for government formation.

Shiv Sena also hinted at getting support from Congress and NCP owing to the current political situation in Maharashtra.

NCP has 54 MLAs while its alliance partner Congress has 44. If Shiv Sena, which had 56 legislators, gets the support of NCP and Congress, it will easily cross the majority mark of 145 in 288-member Maharashtra Assembly.

The NDA alliance received a majority in Maharashtra after the BJP won 105 and Shiv Sena bagged 56 seats.

BJP leader Prasad Lal on Monday asked Shiv Sena to prove the majority as it has decided to part ways with NDA alliance. "Shiv Sena should prove their majority if they can.

BJP leader Prasad Lal on Monday asked Shiv Sena to prove the majority as it has decided to part ways with NDA alliance. "Shiv Sena should prove their majority if they can. We have cleared our stand yesterday. We have refused to form the government as Shiv Sena declined to support us. Now, Shiv Sena should tell its future strategy," he told reporters here. After BJP failed to form the government, Shiv Sena was asked by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari to express its ability for government formation. Shiv Sena also hinted at getting support from Congress and NCP owing to the current political situation in Maharashtra. NCP has 54 MLAs while its alliance partner Congress has 44. If Shiv Sena, which had 56 legislators, gets the support of NCP and Congress, it will easily cross the majority mark of 145 in 288-member Maharashtra Assembly. The NDA alliance received a majority in Maharashtra after the BJP won 105 and Shiv Sena bagged 56 seats.

BJP leader Prasad Lal asks Shiv Sena to prove majority

BJP is not going to form government in Maharashtra and said that Shiv Sena has betrayed the people's mandate. To know more watch the video

Maharashtra Government Formation: NCP to support Shiv Sena

"What can I say in this?" said Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday as Shiv Sena exited the BJP-led NDA alliance in the Centre following <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-governor-invites-shive-sena-to-stake-claim-in-government-formation-after-bjp-refuses-261219">differences over government</a> formation in Maharashtra.

He was responding to a question on the Shiv Sena-BJP tussle in Maharashtra after which Sena MP Arvind Sawant resigned from his ministerial post at the Centre.

Kumar, who is the president of Janata Dal (U) and a part of the NDA coalition, had earlier refused to be part of the government at the Centre over "proportional representation" in Cabinet.Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut hinted that his party may go with Congress and NCP stating that BJP is not following rotational chief ministers formula.He also took a jibe a Nitish Kumar.

"In Bihar, Nitish Kumar was also giving `BJP hatao` slogan...," he said.

Nitish Kumar is running the government in Bihar with the support of BJP.

He had earlier quit NDA ahead of 2015 Bihar Assembly polls later but later joined the alliance after breaking ties with Lalu Prasad-led RJD and the Congress in 2017.

"What can I say in this?" said Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday as Shiv Sena exited the BJP-led NDA alliance in the Centre following differences over government formation in Maharashtra.

"What can I say in this?" said Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Monday as Shiv Sena exited the BJP-led NDA alliance in the Centre following differences over government formation in Maharashtra. He was responding to a question on the Shiv Sena-BJP tussle in Maharashtra after which Sena MP Arvind Sawant resigned from his ministerial post at the Centre. Kumar, who is the president of Janata Dal (U) and a part of the NDA coalition, had earlier refused to be part of the government at the Centre over "proportional representation" in Cabinet.Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut hinted that his party may go with Congress and NCP stating that BJP is not following rotational chief ministers formula.He also took a jibe a Nitish Kumar. "In Bihar, Nitish Kumar was also giving `BJP hatao` slogan...," he said. Nitish Kumar is running the government in Bihar with the support of BJP. He had earlier quit NDA ahead of 2015 Bihar Assembly polls later but later joined the alliance after breaking ties with Lalu Prasad-led RJD and the Congress in 2017.

Nitish Kumar dodges question on Shiv Sena leaving NDA

With the BJP not forming government in Maharashtra, senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister Ashok Chavan on Sunday said that his party has not yet decided anything and is discussing all the available options.

"We are keeping an eye on the recent developments. We are discussing all the options before us. We have not decided anything yet," Chavan told ANI over the phone on being asked if the Congress would form government in Maharashtra.

Chavan, who is currently in Jaipur, said that the party wants a stable government in Maharashtra and not the President's Rule.

BJP's Maharashtra unit chief Chandrakant Patil on Sunday said that his party would not form the government in Maharashtra.

Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Saturday had asked acting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to "indicate the willingness and ability of his party to form the government in Maharashtra".

The party's core committee met twice today to discuss the Governor's invitation to BJP to form the government in the state.

The term of state assembly ended yesterday. The BJP had remerged as the single largest party in the assembly polls winning 105 seats while the Shiv Sena bagged 56 seats.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

With the BJP not forming government in Maharashtra, senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister Ashok Chavan on Sunday said that his party has not yet decided anything and is discussing all the available options.

With the BJP not forming government in Maharashtra, senior Congress leader and former Chief Minister Ashok Chavan on Sunday said that his party has not yet decided anything and is discussing all the available options. "We are keeping an eye on the recent developments. We are discussing all the options before us. We have not decided anything yet," Chavan told ANI over the phone on being asked if the Congress would form government in Maharashtra. Chavan, who is currently in Jaipur, said that the party wants a stable government in Maharashtra and not the President's Rule. BJP's Maharashtra unit chief Chandrakant Patil on Sunday said that his party would not form the government in Maharashtra. Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Saturday had asked acting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to "indicate the willingness and ability of his party to form the government in Maharashtra". The party's core committee met twice today to discuss the Governor's invitation to BJP to form the government in the state. The term of state assembly ended yesterday. The BJP had remerged as the single largest party in the assembly polls winning 105 seats while the Shiv Sena bagged 56 seats.

Yet to decide forming government in Maharashtra, discussing options before us: Ashok Chavan

BJP's former chief minister of Maharashtra Devendra Fadnavis told the Governor, 'We don't have numbers, can't form the government in Maharashtra'. Watch this video to find out more.

Maharashtra: 'We don't have numbers, can't form govt,' BJP to the Governor

Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Sunday invited the Shiv Sena to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-bjp-decides-not-to-stake-claim-in-government-formation-261207">stake a claim in the government formation of Maharashtra</a>.&nbsp;

Koshyari asked Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde to indicate the willingness and ability of his party to form the government in Maharashtra.

This comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party, earlier in the day, decided not to be part of government formation in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

BJP Maharashtra unit chief announced the same after meeting Koshyari today.&nbsp;

"BJP, Shiv Sena, RPI, and other parties formed the coalition before the assembly polls. People have given the mandate to our alliance to form the government. And that is why the Governor invited us. But the Shiv Sena has not shown interest in forming the government. So now we will not form the government. We have conveyed this to the Governor," he said as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

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Office of Maharashtra Governor: Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari today asked the leader of elected members of the second largest party, the Shiv Sena, Eknath Shinde to indicate the willingness and ability of his party to form the government in Maharashtra. <a href="https://t.co/bdfKgHPj45">pic.twitter.com/bdfKgHPj45</a>
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"This mandate was to work together and if the Shiv Sena wants to disrespect the mandate and form the government with the Congress and the NCP, then they have our good wishes," added Patil.

Maharashtra Governor Koshyari on Saturday had asked acting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to "indicate the willingness and ability of his party to form the government in Maharashtra".

The party's core committee met twice today to discuss the Governor's invitation to BJP to form the government in the state.

The term of state assembly ended yesterday. The BJP had remerged as the single largest party in the assembly polls winning 105 seats while the Shiv Sena bagged 56 seats.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Sunday invited the Shiv Sena to stake a claim in the government formation of Maharashtra. Koshyari asked Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde to indicate the willingness and ability of his party to form the government in Maharashtra.

Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Sunday invited the Shiv Sena to stake a claim in the government formation of Maharashtra. Koshyari asked Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde to indicate the willingness and ability of his party to form the government in Maharashtra. This comes after the Bharatiya Janata Party, earlier in the day, decided not to be part of government formation in Maharashtra. BJP Maharashtra unit chief announced the same after meeting Koshyari today. "BJP, Shiv Sena, RPI, and other parties formed the coalition before the assembly polls. People have given the mandate to our alliance to form the government. And that is why the Governor invited us. But the Shiv Sena has not shown interest in forming the government. So now we will not form the government. We have conveyed this to the Governor," he said as reported by news agency ANI. Office of Maharashtra Governor: Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari today asked the leader of elected members of the second largest party, the Shiv Sena, Eknath Shinde to indicate the willingness and ability of his party to form the government in Maharashtra. pic.twitter.com/bdfKgHPj45 — ANI (@ANI) November 10, 2019 × "This mandate was to work together and if the Shiv Sena wants to disrespect the mandate and form the government with the Congress and the NCP, then they have our good wishes," added Patil. Maharashtra Governor Koshyari on Saturday had asked acting Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to "indicate the willingness and ability of his party to form the government in Maharashtra". The party's core committee met twice today to discuss the Governor's invitation to BJP to form the government in the state. The term of state assembly ended yesterday. The BJP had remerged as the single largest party in the assembly polls winning 105 seats while the Shiv Sena bagged 56 seats. (With inputs from ANI)

Maharashtra Governor invites Shiv Sena to stake claim in government formation after BJP refuses

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