The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President Sharad Pawar on Friday withdrew his resignation as party chief and said he is no longer stepping down.

"I'm taking my decision back," he announced at a press conference.&nbsp; 
 
Pawar, who sprang a surprise by announcing his resignation three days ago, said he could not disrespect the sentiments of colleagues and party workers. “I cannot disrespect their feelings. I am overwhelmed by the love, trust and faith showered on me. Considering the appeals made by all of you, and honouring the decision of the committee constituted by the party, I am withdrawing my decision to retire.” 
 
He also stressed that there has to be a "succession plan" for any post or responsibility in an organisation and that he will focus on creating new leadership.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-sharad-pawar-resigns-as-nationalist-congress-party-ncp-chief-588097">India: Sharad Pawar resigns as Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief</a>

he decision comes after&nbsp;the party unanimously rejected his resignation and asked him to continue in his post.

The decision, along expected lines, was taken at a meeting of the special committee set up by Pawar to name his successor following his dramatic May 2 announcement of stepping down as party head.

The committee also resolved that it was unable to elect another president in Pawar's place and that it requested him to continue until his term ends. It further indicated that the party was fully united under him vis-à-vis recent speculation of a possible split.

NCP Vice-President Praful M Patel, the convenor of the said committee, while addressing a media conference said that the panel's decision&nbsp;on two resolutions — first rejecting Pawar's resignation and the other urging him to continue as party chief — shall be conveyed to the senior leader for his final call in the matter.

The resolutions as per Patil were passed in tune with everybody's expectations. A team of senior leaders met Pawar and conveyed the resolutions to him.

As per IANS, the official decision once announced was met with thunderous applause, cheers, and even tears of relief. Party rank-and-file gathered outside the NCP headquarters reportedly broke into song and dance.

Watch |&nbsp;Sharad Pawar announces his resignation, NCP workers protests outside office

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Patel said that the entire party made its sentiments clear on Pawar's decision to quit and that the views were "again" put forth at the committee meeting.&nbsp;

This comes as in the past four days, Pawar's nephew, Ajit Pawar, adopted a differing line and he batted at electing a new party chief.

However, Ajit Pawar is yet to comment on the fresh development and as per reports, he is likely to meet 83-year-old Sharad Pawar later in the day.

Ever since Pawar dropped his bombshell on the national political horizon, the NCP has been in turmoil with protests, hunger strikes, appeals and letters written in blood, a flood of lower-level resignations, and more, all to get him to undo his move.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP and Chief Spokesperson Sanjay Raut too welcomed the Nationalist Congress Party decision rejecting Sharad Pawar's resignation and said that "it was on anticipated lines."

"There's no alternative to Pawar Saheb...The NCP committee's decision is correct," said Raut.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

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The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President Sharad Pawar on Friday withdrew his resignation as party chief and said he is no longer stepping down. "I'm taking my decision back," he announced at a press conference.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President Sharad Pawar on Friday withdrew his resignation as party chief and said he is no longer stepping down. "I'm taking my decision back," he announced at a press conference. Pawar, who sprang a surprise by announcing his resignation three days ago, said he could not disrespect the sentiments of colleagues and party workers. “I cannot disrespect their feelings. I am overwhelmed by the love, trust and faith showered on me. Considering the appeals made by all of you, and honouring the decision of the committee constituted by the party, I am withdrawing my decision to retire.” He also stressed that there has to be a "succession plan" for any post or responsibility in an organisation and that he will focus on creating new leadership. Also read | India: Sharad Pawar resigns as Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief he decision comes after the party unanimously rejected his resignation and asked him to continue in his post. The decision, along expected lines, was taken at a meeting of the special committee set up by Pawar to name his successor following his dramatic May 2 announcement of stepping down as party head. The committee also resolved that it was unable to elect another president in Pawar's place and that it requested him to continue until his term ends. It further indicated that the party was fully united under him vis-à-vis recent speculation of a possible split. NCP Vice-President Praful M Patel, the convenor of the said committee, while addressing a media conference said that the panel's decision on two resolutions — first rejecting Pawar's resignation and the other urging him to continue as party chief — shall be conveyed to the senior leader for his final call in the matter. The resolutions as per Patil were passed in tune with everybody's expectations. A team of senior leaders met Pawar and conveyed the resolutions to him. As per IANS, the official decision once announced was met with thunderous applause, cheers, and even tears of relief. Party rank-and-file gathered outside the NCP headquarters reportedly broke into song and dance. Watch | Sharad Pawar announces his resignation, NCP workers protests outside office Patel said that the entire party made its sentiments clear on Pawar's decision to quit and that the views were "again" put forth at the committee meeting. This comes as in the past four days, Pawar's nephew, Ajit Pawar, adopted a differing line and he batted at electing a new party chief. However, Ajit Pawar is yet to comment on the fresh development and as per reports, he is likely to meet 83-year-old Sharad Pawar later in the day. Ever since Pawar dropped his bombshell on the national political horizon, the NCP has been in turmoil with protests, hunger strikes, appeals and letters written in blood, a flood of lower-level resignations, and more, all to get him to undo his move. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP and Chief Spokesperson Sanjay Raut too welcomed the Nationalist Congress Party decision rejecting Sharad Pawar's resignation and said that "it was on anticipated lines." "There's no alternative to Pawar Saheb...The NCP committee's decision is correct," said Raut. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

NCP chief Sharad Pawar withdraws resignation, says ‘taking back my decision’

NCP chief Sharad Pawar has declared his resignation. Pawar announced his resignation during the publication of his autobiography, "Lok Majhe Sangaayi - Political Autobiography," saying, "I have decided to step down as president of NCP." Pawar informed party members that a committee has been established to select a leader to lead the party moving forward.

Sharad Pawar announces his resignation, NCP workers protests outside office

Sharad Pawar, a senior political figure in India, said on Tuesday (May 2) that he will step down as the president of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). But Pawar further added that he is not retiring from public life as a party worker and leaders demanded him to withdraw the decision. &nbsp;

Pawar, a &nbsp;four-time chief minister of the Indian state of Maharashtra, also announced a panel of senior party leaders to outline a future course of action. He has served as the union defence and agriculture minister.&nbsp;

"I am resigning from the post of the national president of NCP," Pawar said at a press briefing, news agency PTI reported. The announcement received loud reactions from the gathering. Pawar was speaking at a book launch of his autobiography at the Yashwantrao Chavan Pratisthan.&nbsp;

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He was a vital cog in bringing together an unlikely coalition of the NCP, Congress and then the ideologically opposite Shiv Sena to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government after the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly elections.&nbsp;

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Sharad Pawar, a senior political figure in India, said on Tuesday (May 2) that he will step down as the president of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). But Pawar further added that he is not retiring from public life as a party worker and leaders demanded him to withdraw the decision.

Sharad Pawar, a senior political figure in India, said on Tuesday (May 2) that he will step down as the president of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). But Pawar further added that he is not retiring from public life as a party worker and leaders demanded him to withdraw the decision. Pawar, a four-time chief minister of the Indian state of Maharashtra, also announced a panel of senior party leaders to outline a future course of action. He has served as the union defence and agriculture minister. "I am resigning from the post of the national president of NCP," Pawar said at a press briefing, news agency PTI reported. The announcement received loud reactions from the gathering. Pawar was speaking at a book launch of his autobiography at the Yashwantrao Chavan Pratisthan. #WATCH | "I am resigning from the post of the national president of NCP," says NCP chief Sharad Pawar pic.twitter.com/tTiO8aCAcK — ANI (@ANI) May 2, 2023 × He was a vital cog in bringing together an unlikely coalition of the NCP, Congress and then the ideologically opposite Shiv Sena to form the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government after the 2019 Maharashtra Assembly elections. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India: Sharad Pawar resigns as Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief

After an all-party opposition meeting at Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar's house on Sunday afternoon, senior Congress leader and five-time Member of Parliament Margaret Alva has been named the opposition's candidate for Vice President of India.

Taking to Twitter, Margaret accepted the nomination and thanked opposition leaders. "It is a privilege and an honour to be nominated as the candidate of the joint opposition for the post of Vice President of India. I accept this nomination with great humility and thank the leaders of the opposition for the faith they’ve put in me." she tweeted.

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It is a privilege and an honour to be nominated as the candidate of the joint opposition for the post of Vice President of India. I accept this nomination with great humility and thank the leaders of the opposition for the faith they’ve put in me. 
 
Jai Hind 🇮🇳
— Margaret Alva (@alva_margaret) <a href="https://twitter.com/alva_margaret/status/1548636129636671489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Alva, a former Union Minister, has also served as governor of Rajasthan and Uttarakhand in the past. She will be up against NDA's candidate and West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar.&nbsp;

 
Talking to the media, Sharad Pawar informed that the joint opposition was attempting to establish connection with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to gather their support for the VP candidate.&nbsp;"We are trying to contact Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal. Last time they supported our joint prez candidate" said Sharad Pawar.&nbsp;

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We are trying to contact Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal. Last time they supported our joint prez candidate: Sharad Pawar
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://twitter.com/PTI_News/status/1548629787534512129?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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While Kejriwal and Mamata were missing, other leaders such as former Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut and others were present in the meeting.

The opposition has all but lost the Presidential race as NDA's pick Draupadi Murmu is all set to be crowned the 15th President of the country tomorrow. Similarly, the competition for the Vice President&nbsp;post may not be easy as well.

Can the opposition manage a win?

Unlike the Prez elections where the BJP needed the support of allies and foes alike, the Vice President election only requires the vote of&nbsp;Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs, including the nominated lawmakers. Cumulatively,&nbsp;BJP has 395 MPs, or votes, in the Vice-Presidential election, seven more than the victory mark of 388.

As reported by WION, on Saturday, BJP chief JP Nadda declared the NDA's choice after much speculation. “After all considerations and consultations, we have decided to announce Kisan Putra (farmer's son) Jagdeep Dhankhar as the BJP and NDA's candidate for Vice President.” said Nadda during the announcement.&nbsp;

Read More:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vice-president-election-2022-ruling-bjp-allies-pick-bengal-governor-jagdeep-dhankhar-498133">Vice President election 2022: Ruling BJP, allies pick Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar</a>

The voting to elect India's 16th Vice President will take place on August 6 with the last date of filing nomination being July 19. The term of current Vice President&nbsp;Venkaiah Nadu ends on August 10.

(With inputs from agencies)

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After an all-party opposition meeting at Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar's house on Sunday afternoon, senior Congress leader and five-time Member of Parliament Margaret Alva has been named the opposition's candidate for Vice President of India.

After an all-party opposition meeting at Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar's house on Sunday afternoon, senior Congress leader and five-time Member of Parliament Margaret Alva has been named the opposition's candidate for Vice President of India. Taking to Twitter, Margaret accepted the nomination and thanked opposition leaders. "It is a privilege and an honour to be nominated as the candidate of the joint opposition for the post of Vice President of India. I accept this nomination with great humility and thank the leaders of the opposition for the faith they’ve put in me." she tweeted. It is a privilege and an honour to be nominated as the candidate of the joint opposition for the post of Vice President of India. I accept this nomination with great humility and thank the leaders of the opposition for the faith they’ve put in me. Jai Hind 🇮🇳 — Margaret Alva (@alva_margaret) July 17, 2022 × Alva, a former Union Minister, has also served as governor of Rajasthan and Uttarakhand in the past. She will be up against NDA's candidate and West Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar. Talking to the media, Sharad Pawar informed that the joint opposition was attempting to establish connection with Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee to gather their support for the VP candidate. "We are trying to contact Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal. Last time they supported our joint prez candidate" said Sharad Pawar. We are trying to contact Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal. Last time they supported our joint prez candidate: Sharad Pawar — Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 17, 2022 × While Kejriwal and Mamata were missing, other leaders such as former Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge, CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut and others were present in the meeting. The opposition has all but lost the Presidential race as NDA's pick Draupadi Murmu is all set to be crowned the 15th President of the country tomorrow. Similarly, the competition for the Vice President post may not be easy as well. Can the opposition manage a win? Unlike the Prez elections where the BJP needed the support of allies and foes alike, the Vice President election only requires the vote of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs, including the nominated lawmakers. Cumulatively, BJP has 395 MPs, or votes, in the Vice-Presidential election, seven more than the victory mark of 388. As reported by WION, on Saturday, BJP chief JP Nadda declared the NDA's choice after much speculation. “After all considerations and consultations, we have decided to announce Kisan Putra (farmer's son) Jagdeep Dhankhar as the BJP and NDA's candidate for Vice President.” said Nadda during the announcement. Read More: Vice President election 2022: Ruling BJP, allies pick Bengal Governor Jagdeep Dhankhar The voting to elect India's 16th Vice President will take place on August 6 with the last date of filing nomination being July 19. The term of current Vice President Venkaiah Nadu ends on August 10. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Margaret Alva to be opposition candidate for India's Vice President

Bollywood legend Dilip Kumar's mortal remains were taken back to his residence in Juhu, Mumbai from Hinduja Hospital. The actor's funeral is likely to take place later in the evening.

Bollywood legend Dilip Kumar's mortal remains were taken back to his residence in Juhu, Mumbai from Hinduja Hospital. The actor's funeral is likely to take place later in the evening. Several Bollywood stars and politicians including Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray arrived at Dilip Kumar's residence to pay their respect to the veteran actor. Shah Rukh Khan was seen paying condolence to the late actor's wife Saira Banu. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Manav Manglani (@manav.manglani) × Other stars who were seen arriving at the actor's residence included Dharmendra, Ranbir Kapoor, Karan Johar, Vidya Balan, Siddharth Roy Kapur and Anil Kapoor. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Manav Manglani (@manav.manglani) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Manav Manglani (@manav.manglani) × View this post on Instagram A post shared by Manav Manglani (@manav.manglani) × Maharashtra | Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray consoles Saira Banu on the passing away of veteran actor Dilip Kumar in Mumbai Actor Dharmendra present at the actor's residence says, "I have lost my brother today. I will live with his memories in my heart." pic.twitter.com/fuASQN3HJV — ANI (@ANI) July 7, 2021 × Maharashtra | Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray consoles Saira Banu on the passing away of veteran actor Dilip Kumar in Mumbai Actor Dharmendra present at the actor's residence says, "I have lost my brother today. I will live with his memories in my heart." pic.twitter.com/fuASQN3HJV — ANI (@ANI) July 7, 2021 × Among politicians, Sharad Pawar and CM Uddhav Thackeray were also seen at Kumar's residence. Also see: Remembering Dilip Kumar: Lesser known facts about the Bollywood legend Dilip Kumar and Madhubala: How things turned sour for this star couple Earlier in the day, the CM announced that the legendary actor would be cremated with full state honours. Keeping COVID in mind, there are arrangements to keep the last rites ceremony as low-key as possible and the Mumbai police has formed a human chain as Dilip Kumar’s mortal remains are taken to his Bandra residence. Also see: Dilip Kumar (1922-2021): Iconic dialogues from his memorable movies As Dilip Kumar bids farewell, these iconic on-screen pairings will resonate with fans forever

Dilip Kumar funeral: Shah Rukh Khan, Ranbir Kapoor and others pay tribute to the actor at his residence

Scotching all speculation over the stability of the Maharashtra government,&nbsp;Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Tuesday said that Sharad Pawar met Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, but there`s nothing to worry about the stability of the Maha Vikas Aghadi which is firmly in the saddle.

His comments came after coalition partner and Nationalist Congress Party President Pawar held a private 90-minute on Monday evening amid speculations that differences had cropped up among the Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress on the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The Opposition has yet to discover a vaccine for Corona and a dose to bring down the Uddhav Thackeray government But efforts are on," Raut said, indirectly hinting at a potential political crisis. However, in the same breath he warned that "any attempt to destabilize the state could backfirea and advised the Opposition to go into aquarantine`.

Raut dismissed as "wishful thinking" all rumours hovering over the fate of the MVA regime, saying "the government is strong, and there`s no cause for worries".

Amid a Centre-State fracas, hectic politicking started in the state on Monday capped with Pawar and his close confidante Praful Patel, MP getting an invite from Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari for high-tea last evening at Raj Bhavan.

Pawar made his first-ever courtesy visit` to greet Koshyari setting tongues wagging, and later he travelled to Bandra to meet Thackeray at his residence `Matoshree`.

Shortly afterwards, senior BJP leader and ex-Chief Minister Narayan Rane called on the Governor and reportedly demanded imposing President`s Rule in the state as the Thackeray government had failed to rein in the pandemic.

Rane voiced the views of Leader of Opposition Devendra Fadnavis who last week complained that the Thackeray government had bungled in handling the Coronavirus situation, and later the Governor called a review meeting on the subject.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Scotching all speculation over the stability of the Maharashtra government, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Tuesday said that Sharad Pawar met Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, but there`s nothing to worry about the stability of the Maha Vikas Aghadi which is firmly in the saddle.

Scotching all speculation over the stability of the Maharashtra government, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut on Tuesday said that Sharad Pawar met Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray, but there`s nothing to worry about the stability of the Maha Vikas Aghadi which is firmly in the saddle. His comments came after coalition partner and Nationalist Congress Party President Pawar held a private 90-minute on Monday evening amid speculations that differences had cropped up among the Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress on the handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. "The Opposition has yet to discover a vaccine for Corona and a dose to bring down the Uddhav Thackeray government But efforts are on," Raut said, indirectly hinting at a potential political crisis. However, in the same breath he warned that "any attempt to destabilize the state could backfirea and advised the Opposition to go into aquarantine`. Raut dismissed as "wishful thinking" all rumours hovering over the fate of the MVA regime, saying "the government is strong, and there`s no cause for worries". Amid a Centre-State fracas, hectic politicking started in the state on Monday capped with Pawar and his close confidante Praful Patel, MP getting an invite from Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari for high-tea last evening at Raj Bhavan. Pawar made his first-ever courtesy visit` to greet Koshyari setting tongues wagging, and later he travelled to Bandra to meet Thackeray at his residence `Matoshree`. Shortly afterwards, senior BJP leader and ex-Chief Minister Narayan Rane called on the Governor and reportedly demanded imposing President`s Rule in the state as the Thackeray government had failed to rein in the pandemic. Rane voiced the views of Leader of Opposition Devendra Fadnavis who last week complained that the Thackeray government had bungled in handling the Coronavirus situation, and later the Governor called a review meeting on the subject. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra govt firmly in saddle, says Sanjay Raut after Pawar, Uddhav meet

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Wednesday termed as unfortunate the gathering of migrant workers outside the Bandra railway station and stressed such incidents should not recur in the face of the COVID-19 crisis. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
He said people gathered outside the station after somebody circulated the rumour that trains services will resume, adding precautions need to be taken to ensure that such confusing messages are checked. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
The former Union minister also urged political parties to desist from scoring points over each other during the ongoing crisis and asked them to defeat COVID-19 collectively. 
&nbsp; 
An unfortunate incident took place outside the Bandra station yesterday. Somebody spread the rumour that train services will resume and local people gathered there. Unfortunately, social distancing was not observed, Pawar said in a Facebook address. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
"I would also request political parties that we may fight politically but this is not the time to score over each other. It is not the time to think who is in power at the Centre and in the state. We should take steps to defeat the coronavirus, he said. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
Ignoring lockdown norms, over 1,000 migrant workers who earn daily wages gathered here on Tuesday demanding transport arrangements to go back to their native places, hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the coronavirus-enforced curbs till May 3. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
The gathering in suburban Bandra, in violation of lockdown norms, created a potential law and order situation for an overstretched police force and the men in uniform resorted to mild force to scatter the crowd.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Wednesday termed as unfortunate the gathering of migrant workers outside the Bandra railway station and stressed such incidents should not recur in the face of the COVID-19 crisis.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Wednesday termed as unfortunate the gathering of migrant workers outside the Bandra railway station and stressed such incidents should not recur in the face of the COVID-19 crisis. He said people gathered outside the station after somebody circulated the rumour that trains services will resume, adding precautions need to be taken to ensure that such confusing messages are checked. The former Union minister also urged political parties to desist from scoring points over each other during the ongoing crisis and asked them to defeat COVID-19 collectively. An unfortunate incident took place outside the Bandra station yesterday. Somebody spread the rumour that train services will resume and local people gathered there. Unfortunately, social distancing was not observed, Pawar said in a Facebook address. "I would also request political parties that we may fight politically but this is not the time to score over each other. It is not the time to think who is in power at the Centre and in the state. We should take steps to defeat the coronavirus, he said. Ignoring lockdown norms, over 1,000 migrant workers who earn daily wages gathered here on Tuesday demanding transport arrangements to go back to their native places, hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended the coronavirus-enforced curbs till May 3. The gathering in suburban Bandra, in violation of lockdown norms, created a potential law and order situation for an overstretched police force and the men in uniform resorted to mild force to scatter the crowd.

Take steps to avoid a repeat of Bandra railway station gathering: Sharad Pawar to govt

Senior NCP leader and NCP chief's daughter Supriya Sule said on Tuesday that it is the grandeur of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he considered me for a cabinet post.&nbsp;

Sule was responding to NCP supremo Sharad Pawar's claim, where he said that PM Modi suggested that the duo should "work together", suggesting BJP-NCP alliance in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-sworn-in-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-chief-minister-265104">Maharashtra</a>. Pawar also said that an offer was made to give cabinet birth to Sule in Centre.&nbsp;

"It is the grandeur of the prime minister that he made such suggestions. I am grateful to him for the suggestion, but this cannot happen," Sule said.&nbsp;

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Nationalist Congress Party leader Supriya Sule on Sharad Pawar's claim that PM Modi offered cabinet berth for Sule if BJP-NCP alliance happens: Ye pradhan mantri ji ka badappan hai ki unhone aisa sujhav diya. Main unki aabhari hoon unhone kaha, lekin wo ho nahi paya. <a href="https://t.co/3dVyqKqDDU">pic.twitter.com/3dVyqKqDDU</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1201870054532374528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Days before BJP, NCP and Congress were closing in on a deal to form government in Maharashtra, in a jolting move, BJP's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-resigns-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-sources-264628">Devendra Fadnavis </a>took oath along with senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar for the post of CM and deputy CM respectively on November 23.

However, senior Pawar repeatedly denied any involvement of stitching an alliance with BJP and ultimately BJP-NCP-Congress government was formed in the state with Uddhav Thackeray as the chief minister on November 28.&nbsp;

Speaking on whether a disciplinary action will be taken against Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit, Sule said that is an internal matter of their party and family. "He will always remain my elder brother and senior leader of the party," Sule said.&nbsp;

Long-term allies Shiv Sena and BJP formed an alliance for the Maharashtra Assembly polls but their ties got severed over power-sharing agreement. Sena then held talks with its traditional opponents, Congress and NCP, who later supported Sena and Maha Aghadi government was formed in Maharashtra.

(with inputs from ANI)

 
&nbsp;

Senior NCP leader and NCP chief's daughter Supriya Sule said on Tuesday that it is the grandeur of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he considered me for a cabinet post.

Senior NCP leader and NCP chief's daughter Supriya Sule said on Tuesday that it is the grandeur of Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he considered me for a cabinet post. Sule was responding to NCP supremo Sharad Pawar's claim, where he said that PM Modi suggested that the duo should "work together", suggesting BJP-NCP alliance in Maharashtra. Pawar also said that an offer was made to give cabinet birth to Sule in Centre. "It is the grandeur of the prime minister that he made such suggestions. I am grateful to him for the suggestion, but this cannot happen," Sule said. Nationalist Congress Party leader Supriya Sule on Sharad Pawar's claim that PM Modi offered cabinet berth for Sule if BJP-NCP alliance happens: Ye pradhan mantri ji ka badappan hai ki unhone aisa sujhav diya. Main unki aabhari hoon unhone kaha, lekin wo ho nahi paya. pic.twitter.com/3dVyqKqDDU — ANI (@ANI) December 3, 2019 × Days before BJP, NCP and Congress were closing in on a deal to form government in Maharashtra, in a jolting move, BJP's Devendra Fadnavis took oath along with senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar for the post of CM and deputy CM respectively on November 23. However, senior Pawar repeatedly denied any involvement of stitching an alliance with BJP and ultimately BJP-NCP-Congress government was formed in the state with Uddhav Thackeray as the chief minister on November 28. Speaking on whether a disciplinary action will be taken against Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit, Sule said that is an internal matter of their party and family. "He will always remain my elder brother and senior leader of the party," Sule said. Long-term allies Shiv Sena and BJP formed an alliance for the Maharashtra Assembly polls but their ties got severed over power-sharing agreement. Sena then held talks with its traditional opponents, Congress and NCP, who later supported Sena and Maha Aghadi government was formed in Maharashtra. (with inputs from ANI)

Grateful to PM Narendra Modi for offering cabinet berth: NCP leader Supriya Sule

Shiv Sena president and&nbsp;chief ministerial candidate of Sena-NCP-Congress alliance Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday staked his claim to form the government in Maharashtra before Governor BS Koshyari.

The Shiv Sena chief will be sworn in on November 28 at Shivaji Park, the party announced after his visit to the Raj Bhavan.

Earlier on the day, Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as the CM of Maharashtra to the Governor BS Koshyari.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference before his resignation, Fadnavis said Ajit Pawar has also quit as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra.

He also said that the party formed the government after it received assurance from NCP chief Sharad Pawar that NCP will support the BJP. He added that when Ajit Pawar submitted his resignation today, they then took a call that will also not continue to remain in power.

On November 23, in a massive turn of events, Devendra Fadnavis took oath as CM of Maharashtra in the wee hours. NCP's Ajit Pawar was also sworn in as deputy CM.&nbsp;

The swearing-in ceremony came at a time when NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were finalising a deal to form government in the state. After the ceremony, NCP chief clarified that the party is not with BJP and will form an alliance with Congress and NCP.

(With inputs from agencies)

Shiv Sena president and chief ministerial candidate of Sena-NCP-Congress alliance Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday staked his claim to form the government in Maharashtra before Governor BS Koshyari.

Shiv Sena president and chief ministerial candidate of Sena-NCP-Congress alliance Uddhav Thackeray on Tuesday staked his claim to form the government in Maharashtra before Governor BS Koshyari. The Shiv Sena chief will be sworn in on November 28 at Shivaji Park, the party announced after his visit to the Raj Bhavan. Earlier on the day, Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as the CM of Maharashtra to the Governor BS Koshyari. Addressing a press conference before his resignation, Fadnavis said Ajit Pawar has also quit as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra. He also said that the party formed the government after it received assurance from NCP chief Sharad Pawar that NCP will support the BJP. He added that when Ajit Pawar submitted his resignation today, they then took a call that will also not continue to remain in power. On November 23, in a massive turn of events, Devendra Fadnavis took oath as CM of Maharashtra in the wee hours. NCP's Ajit Pawar was also sworn in as deputy CM. The swearing-in ceremony came at a time when NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were finalising a deal to form government in the state. After the ceremony, NCP chief clarified that the party is not with BJP and will form an alliance with Congress and NCP. (With inputs from agencies)

Uddhav Thackeray to take oath as Maharashtra chief minister on November 28

The Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-congress-sena-ncp-will-meet-governor-tomorrow-to-form-government-in-the-state-says-prithviraj-chavan-264719">Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP </a>will stake claim to form the next government in Maharasthra and pending Governor's approval is set to be sworn in here on December 1, according to NCP supremo Sharad Pawar.

The announcement came more than a month after the results for the Assembly elections in the state ending weeks of flip flop over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-resigns-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-sources-264628">government </a>formation in the state.

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Shiv Sena chief and Chief Minister candidate of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi', Uddhav Thackeray: We will make this Maharashtra once again that Maharashtra which Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj dreamt of. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/qdrWe4G7OY">pic.twitter.com/qdrWe4G7OY</a>
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"Three representatives of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' will meet the Governor today. Swearing-in ceremony to be held at Shivaji Park, Mumbai on December 1," NCP chief Sharad Pawar said during a joint meeting of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP MLAs at a hotel here.

The meeting saw all legislators pass a unanimous resolution supporting Uddhav Thackeray's name as the chief ministerial candidate and the leader of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi'.

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Shiv Sena chief and CM candidate of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi', Uddhav Thackeray: I accept the responsibility given by all of you. I'm not alone but you all are CM with me. What has happened today is the actual democracy. Together we will wipe off the tears of farmers in the state. <a href="https://t.co/dUtxW3a4nS">pic.twitter.com/dUtxW3a4nS</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199339535961751554?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The development comes after Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar resigned as the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, merely three days after they were administered the oath.

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Devendra Fadnavis resigns as the Chief Minister of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a>. <a href="https://t.co/45ysg3CMx3">pic.twitter.com/45ysg3CMx3</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199269299157794822?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Congress new legislature wing leader Balasaheb Thorat endorsed the resolution moved by NCP leader Jayant Patil proposing Uddhav's name.

"I had never dreamed of leading the state. I would like to thank Sonia Gandhi and others. We are giving a new direction to the country by keeping faith on each other," Uddhav Thackeray said while addressing the gathering.

Shiv Sena confirmed that the Uddhav and other Maha Vikas Aghadi leaders will meet the governor later tonight and stake the claim to form the government.

On Wednesday in a special assembly session protem Speaker Kalidas Kolambkar is expected to swear in the new MLAs.

The Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP will stake claim to form the next government in Maharasthra and pending Governor's approval is set to be sworn in here on December 1, according to NCP supremo Sharad Pawar.

The Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP will stake claim to form the next government in Maharasthra and pending Governor's approval is set to be sworn in here on December 1, according to NCP supremo Sharad Pawar. The announcement came more than a month after the results for the Assembly elections in the state ending weeks of flip flop over government formation in the state. Shiv Sena chief and Chief Minister candidate of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi', Uddhav Thackeray: We will make this Maharashtra once again that Maharashtra which Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj dreamt of. #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/qdrWe4G7OY — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2019 × "Three representatives of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' will meet the Governor today. Swearing-in ceremony to be held at Shivaji Park, Mumbai on December 1," NCP chief Sharad Pawar said during a joint meeting of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP MLAs at a hotel here. The meeting saw all legislators pass a unanimous resolution supporting Uddhav Thackeray's name as the chief ministerial candidate and the leader of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi'. Shiv Sena chief and CM candidate of 'Maha Vikas Aghadi', Uddhav Thackeray: I accept the responsibility given by all of you. I'm not alone but you all are CM with me. What has happened today is the actual democracy. Together we will wipe off the tears of farmers in the state. pic.twitter.com/dUtxW3a4nS — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2019 × The development comes after Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar resigned as the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra, merely three days after they were administered the oath. Devendra Fadnavis resigns as the Chief Minister of #Maharashtra. pic.twitter.com/45ysg3CMx3 — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2019 × Congress new legislature wing leader Balasaheb Thorat endorsed the resolution moved by NCP leader Jayant Patil proposing Uddhav's name. "I had never dreamed of leading the state. I would like to thank Sonia Gandhi and others. We are giving a new direction to the country by keeping faith on each other," Uddhav Thackeray said while addressing the gathering. Shiv Sena confirmed that the Uddhav and other Maha Vikas Aghadi leaders will meet the governor later tonight and stake the claim to form the government. On Wednesday in a special assembly session protem Speaker Kalidas Kolambkar is expected to swear in the new MLAs.

'Maha Vikas Aghadi' government to be sworn-in on December 1, Uddhav to lead alliance: Sharad Pawar

As Devendra Fadnavis-Ajit Pawar government failed to survive in Maharashtra, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Tuesday said NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress will meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Wednesday to stake a claim for government formation in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-resigns-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-sources-264628">state</a>.

"We will meet the governor tomorrow to claim that Fadnvavis did not have the majority and NCP-Congress-Sena alliance has the required numbers of MLAs to form government in the state," Chavan told ANI here. "Instability in the state shall be removed immediately," he said, adding that the Chief Minister whom tri-party alliance has chosen should be sworn-in at earliest.

Fadnavis on Tuesday announced his resignation as Maharashtra's Chief Minister, hours after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test in the state assembly. "We realised that we don't have the required numbers to form the government and we don't want to indulge in horse-trading," Fadnavis told reporters after announcing his decision.

Earlier in the day, his deputy, NCP's Ajit Pawar resigned from the post, just three days after he was sworn-in. Soon after Fadnavis and Pawar's resignation, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut confirmed that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has resigned from his post of deputy chief minister and is now with "us".

In a sudden turn of event, both Fadnavis and Pawar were administered the oath on Saturday morning, nixing Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP's bid to form government in the state.&nbsp;

As Devendra Fadnavis-Ajit Pawar government failed to survive in Maharashtra, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Tuesday said NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress will meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Wednesday to stake a claim for government formation in the state.

As Devendra Fadnavis-Ajit Pawar government failed to survive in Maharashtra, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan on Tuesday said NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress will meet Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari on Wednesday to stake a claim for government formation in the state. "We will meet the governor tomorrow to claim that Fadnvavis did not have the majority and NCP-Congress-Sena alliance has the required numbers of MLAs to form government in the state," Chavan told ANI here. "Instability in the state shall be removed immediately," he said, adding that the Chief Minister whom tri-party alliance has chosen should be sworn-in at earliest. Fadnavis on Tuesday announced his resignation as Maharashtra's Chief Minister, hours after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test in the state assembly. "We realised that we don't have the required numbers to form the government and we don't want to indulge in horse-trading," Fadnavis told reporters after announcing his decision. Earlier in the day, his deputy, NCP's Ajit Pawar resigned from the post, just three days after he was sworn-in. Soon after Fadnavis and Pawar's resignation, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut confirmed that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has resigned from his post of deputy chief minister and is now with "us". In a sudden turn of event, both Fadnavis and Pawar were administered the oath on Saturday morning, nixing Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP's bid to form government in the state.

Maharashtra: Congress-Sena-NCP will meet governor tomorrow to form government in the state, says Prithviraj Chavan

Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics. It was spoiled by BJP, said senior NCP leader on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-meeting-of-mlas-from-ncp-shiv-sena-congress-called-today-to-elect-leader-264633">Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP </a>have submitted a letter to Maharashtra Governor on Monday regarding the support of 162 MLAs to form a government in Maharashtra. Majority support of 145 MLAs is required for government formation in the state. Traditionally, allies Congress and NCP are political opponents of Shiv Sena. But, the three parties have come together after Shiv Sena had a fallout with its long-term ally BJP over the power-sharing&nbsp;agreement.&nbsp;

"Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics, they came into existence to serve the people of Maharashtra. Shiv Sena was spoiled after joining hand with BJP, " senior NCP leader Nawab Malik said, reports ANI.

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Nawab Malik,NCP: Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics , they came into existence to serve the people of Maharashtra. Shiv Sena was spoiled after joining hand with BJP <a href="https://t.co/n4LPqqlaOo">pic.twitter.com/n4LPqqlaOo</a>
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He also said that NCP supremo Sharad Pawar asked <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-has-given-consent-to-become-maharashtra-chief-minister-sanjay-raut-263954">Uddhav Thackeray </a>to become CM of Maharashtra, to which he agreed.&nbsp;

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Nawab Malik,NCP: Sharad Pawar saheb had said that Uddhav ji will be the Chief Minister and Uddhav ji has also agreed to this <a href="https://t.co/SoMCCT64AI">https://t.co/SoMCCT64AI</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199300514371915776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Malik said that NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress alliance will last for a long time and this alliance will be the beginning of BJP's end. "BJP has become very arrogant, " Malik said.&nbsp;

Earlier today, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-resigns-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-sources-264628">Devendra Fadnavis </a>resigned as the chief minister of Maharashtra. Fadnavis said that he took the step after NCP's Ajit Pawar submitted his resignation as deputy CM. The decision came after the Supreme Court ordered conducting a floor test in order to test the majority of BJP government in the Maharashtra Assembly.

In a surprising move, Fadnavis took oath as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devendra-fadnavis-takes-oath-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-cm-263978">Maharashtra CM </a>after getting support from Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit Pawar. Before this development, Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress were in the final stages to form an alliance in Maharashtra.

The results of Maharashtra Assembly elections were declared on October 24. BJP won the maximum number of seats: 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively.

Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics. It was spoiled by BJP, said senior NCP leader on Tuesday. Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have submitted a letter to Maharashtra Governor on Monday regarding the support of 162 MLAs to form a government in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics. It was spoiled by BJP, said senior NCP leader on Tuesday. Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have submitted a letter to Maharashtra Governor on Monday regarding the support of 162 MLAs to form a government in Maharashtra. Majority support of 145 MLAs is required for government formation in the state. Traditionally, allies Congress and NCP are political opponents of Shiv Sena. But, the three parties have come together after Shiv Sena had a fallout with its long-term ally BJP over the power-sharing agreement. "Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics, they came into existence to serve the people of Maharashtra. Shiv Sena was spoiled after joining hand with BJP, " senior NCP leader Nawab Malik said, reports ANI. Nawab Malik,NCP: Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics , they came into existence to serve the people of Maharashtra. Shiv Sena was spoiled after joining hand with BJP pic.twitter.com/n4LPqqlaOo — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2019 × He also said that NCP supremo Sharad Pawar asked Uddhav Thackeray to become CM of Maharashtra, to which he agreed. Nawab Malik,NCP: Sharad Pawar saheb had said that Uddhav ji will be the Chief Minister and Uddhav ji has also agreed to this https://t.co/SoMCCT64AI — ANI (@ANI) November 26, 2019 × Malik said that NCP-Shiv Sena-Congress alliance will last for a long time and this alliance will be the beginning of BJP's end. "BJP has become very arrogant, " Malik said. Earlier today, Devendra Fadnavis resigned as the chief minister of Maharashtra. Fadnavis said that he took the step after NCP's Ajit Pawar submitted his resignation as deputy CM. The decision came after the Supreme Court ordered conducting a floor test in order to test the majority of BJP government in the Maharashtra Assembly. In a surprising move, Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra CM after getting support from Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit Pawar. Before this development, Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress were in the final stages to form an alliance in Maharashtra. The results of Maharashtra Assembly elections were declared on October 24. BJP won the maximum number of seats: 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively.

Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics: Senior NCP leader

A sudden turn of events in the last 48 hours in Maharashtra has done many things simultaneously in Indian politics. It has humbled modern-day Chanakyas who tried to pull a rabbit out of the hat at last minute.

BJP’s midnight drama was being showcased as the killer instinct of BJP and failure of the opposition to come together in time. But ultimately BJP had to bite the dust. Maharashtra proved that there is a limit to political manoeuvring which BJP must have realised when Ajit Pawar resigned from the position of Deputy Chief Minister.

Ajit Pawar continues to be one of the most tainted politicians in Maharashtra. BJP which projects itself as the party with a difference came out bruised and battered. By aligning with Ajit Pawar, it not only lost its credibility but also lost power within 48 hours as Ajit Pawar ditched BJP. BJP lost its handle on the issue of corruption forever. The shortsighted alliance has done more&nbsp;damage to BJP than what party top brass thinks to be. BJP will find it difficult to beat other parties on the issue of corruption again.

It bruised political credibility of Home Minister Amit Shah and also impacted the image of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi who tweeted after Devendra Fadnavis’s swearing-in. BJP by creating a constitutional and political turmoil in the state also ended up alienating a lot of political players. BJP wanted to send the signal that there cannot be a united opposition against them, but circumstances proved them wrong.

BJP successfully sent a similar message right before the Lok Sabha election when they poached back Nitish Kumar into their fold. Today, BJP stands isolated in the context of regional parties. BJP forgot that it was able to grow by building strong and organic alliances wherever it was limited by an ideological appeal.

By getting into a fist-fight with a junior partner, BJP came across as an unfair giant who ended up being defeated by political pygmies. Both Congress and NCP were decimated by BJP in Lok Sabha elections. Today, by forging an alliance with ideologically different parties, the idea of a united opposition looks possible. Lok Sabha elections are far away but there are a number of state elections where BJP is pitched directly against regional parties. Imagine, if all political parties merge their differences to support an anti-BJP front? Maharashtra escapade of BJP has made those ideas thinkable which in past would have been ridiculed.

This is not to say that this alliance can run smoothly or can finish the entire term together. The alliance marks a churning in Indian politics where Congress party will need to play a supportive role in large parts of India. Congress which ruled Maharashtra for decades is the smallest player in the alliance. The state unit of Maharashtra prevailed over Sonia and Rahul Gandhi. On top of it, the Congress old guard was active, and Rahul Gandhi was nowhere to be seen. 
 
The old guard led by Ahmed Patel was able to negotiate a deal with Sharad Pawar and Udhhav Thackery. It just goes on to show how little Rahul Gandhi counts when it comes to ‘real’ politics in the country. The old guard not only managed to give a good fight but also ensured that the alliance succeeds. Maharashtra alliance may function or may not but throws open a lot of political opportunities for India’s opposition which is both faceless and disunited.

BJP, on the other hand, should moderate its stand when it comes to managing regional parties. What happens is future is a larger debate but for now, regional parties are a reality and they feel threatened by BJP. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;

A sudden turn of events in the last 48 hours in Maharashtra has done many things simultaneously in Indian politics. It has humbled modern-day Chanakyas who tried to pull a rabbit out of the hat at last minute.

A sudden turn of events in the last 48 hours in Maharashtra has done many things simultaneously in Indian politics. It has humbled modern-day Chanakyas who tried to pull a rabbit out of the hat at last minute. BJP’s midnight drama was being showcased as the killer instinct of BJP and failure of the opposition to come together in time. But ultimately BJP had to bite the dust. Maharashtra proved that there is a limit to political manoeuvring which BJP must have realised when Ajit Pawar resigned from the position of Deputy Chief Minister. Ajit Pawar continues to be one of the most tainted politicians in Maharashtra. BJP which projects itself as the party with a difference came out bruised and battered. By aligning with Ajit Pawar, it not only lost its credibility but also lost power within 48 hours as Ajit Pawar ditched BJP. BJP lost its handle on the issue of corruption forever. The shortsighted alliance has done more damage to BJP than what party top brass thinks to be. BJP will find it difficult to beat other parties on the issue of corruption again. It bruised political credibility of Home Minister Amit Shah and also impacted the image of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi who tweeted after Devendra Fadnavis’s swearing-in. BJP by creating a constitutional and political turmoil in the state also ended up alienating a lot of political players. BJP wanted to send the signal that there cannot be a united opposition against them, but circumstances proved them wrong. BJP successfully sent a similar message right before the Lok Sabha election when they poached back Nitish Kumar into their fold. Today, BJP stands isolated in the context of regional parties. BJP forgot that it was able to grow by building strong and organic alliances wherever it was limited by an ideological appeal. By getting into a fist-fight with a junior partner, BJP came across as an unfair giant who ended up being defeated by political pygmies. Both Congress and NCP were decimated by BJP in Lok Sabha elections. Today, by forging an alliance with ideologically different parties, the idea of a united opposition looks possible. Lok Sabha elections are far away but there are a number of state elections where BJP is pitched directly against regional parties. Imagine, if all political parties merge their differences to support an anti-BJP front? Maharashtra escapade of BJP has made those ideas thinkable which in past would have been ridiculed. This is not to say that this alliance can run smoothly or can finish the entire term together. The alliance marks a churning in Indian politics where Congress party will need to play a supportive role in large parts of India. Congress which ruled Maharashtra for decades is the smallest player in the alliance. The state unit of Maharashtra prevailed over Sonia and Rahul Gandhi. On top of it, the Congress old guard was active, and Rahul Gandhi was nowhere to be seen. The old guard led by Ahmed Patel was able to negotiate a deal with Sharad Pawar and Udhhav Thackery. It just goes on to show how little Rahul Gandhi counts when it comes to ‘real’ politics in the country. The old guard not only managed to give a good fight but also ensured that the alliance succeeds. Maharashtra alliance may function or may not but throws open a lot of political opportunities for India’s opposition which is both faceless and disunited. BJP, on the other hand, should moderate its stand when it comes to managing regional parties. What happens is future is a larger debate but for now, regional parties are a reality and they feel threatened by BJP. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Lessons from Maharashtra: Na Maya Mili Na Ram

The MLAs of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhi-leads-party-protest-in-parliament-premises-over-maharashtra-government-formation-264311">Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP </a>pledged on Monday that they will be honest with their parties and will not do anything which will benefit BJP at a Mumbai hotel.

"I swear that under the leadership of Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray and Sonia Gandhi, I will be honest to my party. I won't get lured by anything. I will not do anything which will benefit BJP", said the MLAs of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP, at Hotel Grand Hyatt in Mumbai, where they are 
lodged to a avoid horse-trading.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Mumbai: Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress MLAs assembled at Hotel Hyatt take a pledge, "I swear that under the leadership of Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray &amp; Sonia Gandhi, I will be honest to my party. I won't get lured by anything. I will not do anything which will benefit BJP". <a href="https://t.co/CV8VhOmKl1">pic.twitter.com/CV8VhOmKl1</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1198977528477736960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Senior leaders of three parties were also present at the hotel including Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, his son Aaditya Thackeray, Congress' Mallikarjun Kharge and NCP supremo Sharad Pawar.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, NCP legislative party leader Jayant Patil along with Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan and others submitted a letter to the Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari which mentioned the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/weve-given-letter-citing-support-of-162-mlas-to-maharashtra-governor-eknath-shinde-264362">support of 162 MLAs</a>. Senior Sena leader Sanjay Raut invited Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to "come and watch" the show of strength of the three parties. Senior Shiv Sena Sanjay Raut invited Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to "come and watch" the show of strength of the three parties at the hotel.

A majority of 145 MLAs are required to form government in Maharashtra.

The Supreme Court, on Monday, reserved its order, on the joint petition filed by Sena, Congress and NCP against the formation of BJP government in Maharashtra. &nbsp;

In a surprising development, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devendra-fadnavis-takes-oath-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-cm-263978">Devendra Fadnavis </a>took oath as Maharashtra CM after getting support from senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar on wee hours on Saturday. Ajit was sworn in as deputy CM. Before the oath-swearing ceremony, NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were on the verge of finalising 
their power-sharing deal in order to form government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

NCP chief has denied any deal with BJP as the party stripped Ajit from the post of party's legislative leader. However, Ajit has reiterated that he will not leave NCP. NCP has repeatedly said that it will form the government with Sena and Congress.

The BJP-Shiv Sena fought the Assembly election together but the long-time allies had a fallout over the post of chief ministership after which Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena started working on forming an alliance.&nbsp;

In the Assembly elections results announced on Oct 24, BJP had won the maximum number of seats (105). Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively.

The MLAs of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP pledged on Monday that they will be honest with their parties and will not do anything which will benefit BJP at a Mumbai hotel.

The MLAs of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP pledged on Monday that they will be honest with their parties and will not do anything which will benefit BJP at a Mumbai hotel. "I swear that under the leadership of Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray and Sonia Gandhi, I will be honest to my party. I won't get lured by anything. I will not do anything which will benefit BJP", said the MLAs of Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP, at Hotel Grand Hyatt in Mumbai, where they are lodged to a avoid horse-trading. #WATCH Mumbai: Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress MLAs assembled at Hotel Hyatt take a pledge, "I swear that under the leadership of Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray & Sonia Gandhi, I will be honest to my party. I won't get lured by anything. I will not do anything which will benefit BJP". pic.twitter.com/CV8VhOmKl1 — ANI (@ANI) November 25, 2019 × Senior leaders of three parties were also present at the hotel including Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, his son Aaditya Thackeray, Congress' Mallikarjun Kharge and NCP supremo Sharad Pawar. Earlier in the day, NCP legislative party leader Jayant Patil along with Shiv Sena's Eknath Shinde, Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan and others submitted a letter to the Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari which mentioned the support of 162 MLAs. Senior Sena leader Sanjay Raut invited Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to "come and watch" the show of strength of the three parties. Senior Shiv Sena Sanjay Raut invited Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari to "come and watch" the show of strength of the three parties at the hotel. A majority of 145 MLAs are required to form government in Maharashtra. The Supreme Court, on Monday, reserved its order, on the joint petition filed by Sena, Congress and NCP against the formation of BJP government in Maharashtra. In a surprising development, Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra CM after getting support from senior NCP leader Ajit Pawar on wee hours on Saturday. Ajit was sworn in as deputy CM. Before the oath-swearing ceremony, NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were on the verge of finalising their power-sharing deal in order to form government in Maharashtra. NCP chief has denied any deal with BJP as the party stripped Ajit from the post of party's legislative leader. However, Ajit has reiterated that he will not leave NCP. NCP has repeatedly said that it will form the government with Sena and Congress. The BJP-Shiv Sena fought the Assembly election together but the long-time allies had a fallout over the post of chief ministership after which Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena started working on forming an alliance. In the Assembly elections results announced on Oct 24, BJP had won the maximum number of seats (105). Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively.

'We will not do anything to benefit BJP,' MLAs pledge to be honest to Sena-NCP-Congress alliance

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Monday said that it is a fact that BJP did not have the majority and that is why they did not form government earlier, reported news agency ANI.&nbsp;

Speaking at a press conference in Karad, Pawar was quoted as saying: "It is a fact that BJP didn`t have the majority and that is why they did not form the government. They (BJP) had even written to the Governor initially that they don`t have the majority and hence would not form the government."

Pawar said in Karad city to attend an event on the death anniversary of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Yashwantrao Chavan.

"We have been conducting meetings with our MLAs and our party NCP is not with the BJP in forming the government,'' he further said.&nbsp;

Chavan who passed away in 1984 was the first Chief Minister of Maharashtra after the division of Bombay State. Chavan served as the chief minister of Maharashtra between 1960-62.

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Monday said that it is a fact that BJP did not have the majority and that is why they did not form government earlier, reported news agency ANI.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar on Monday said that it is a fact that BJP did not have the majority and that is why they did not form government earlier, reported news agency ANI. Speaking at a press conference in Karad, Pawar was quoted as saying: "It is a fact that BJP didn`t have the majority and that is why they did not form the government. They (BJP) had even written to the Governor initially that they don`t have the majority and hence would not form the government." Pawar said in Karad city to attend an event on the death anniversary of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Yashwantrao Chavan. "We have been conducting meetings with our MLAs and our party NCP is not with the BJP in forming the government,'' he further said. Chavan who passed away in 1984 was the first Chief Minister of Maharashtra after the division of Bombay State. Chavan served as the chief minister of Maharashtra between 1960-62. (With inputs from ANI)

BJP didn't have majority and that is why they did not form govt, says Sharad Pawar

Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar, in a tweet&nbsp;on Sunday, responded to the cryptic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-am-in-ncp-will-always-be-ajit-pawar-tweets-out-assures-stable-government-in-maharashtra-264231">tweets posted by leader Ajit Pawar</a> on government formation in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Pawar ruled out an alliance between the BJP and the NCP, adding that his party has unanimously decided to ally with Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena and the Congress.&nbsp;

"There is no question of forming an alliance with @BJP4Maharashtra. NCP has unanimously decided to ally with @ShivSena and @INCMaharashtra to form the government," Sharad Pawar's tweet read.

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There is no question of forming an alliance with <a href="https://twitter.com/BJP4Maharashtra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@BJP4Maharashtra</a>. 
NCP has unanimously decided to ally with <a href="https://twitter.com/ShivSena?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ShivSena</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/INCMaharashtra?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@INCMaharashtra</a> to form the government. Shri Ajit Pawar’s statement is false and misleading in order to create confusion and false perception among the people.
— Sharad Pawar (@PawarSpeaks) <a href="https://twitter.com/PawarSpeaks/status/1198578943525187585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The NCP chief called Ajit Pawar’s statement "false and misleading".

"Shri Ajit Pawar’s statement is false and misleading in order to create confusion and false perception among the people," he tweeted out.&nbsp;

This comes shortly after NCP leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar tweeted out saying that the BJP and the NCP will provide a stable government to Maharashtra for the next five years.&nbsp;

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I am in the NCP and shall always be in the NCP and <a href="https://twitter.com/PawarSpeaks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PawarSpeaks</a> Saheb is our leader. 
 
Our BJP-NCP alliance shall provide a stable Government in Maharashtra for the next five years which will work sincerely for the welfare of the State and its people.
— Ajit Pawar (@AjitPawarSpeaks) <a href="https://twitter.com/AjitPawarSpeaks/status/1198565018658377728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I'm in NCP and shall always be in the NCP and Sharad Pawar saheb is our leader. Our BJP-NCP alliance shall provide a stable government in Maharashtra for the next five years which will work sincerely for the welfare of the state and its people," Ajit Pawar's tweet read.&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar, in a tweet on Sunday, responded to the cryptic tweets posted by leader Ajit Pawar on government formation in Maharashtra.

Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar, in a tweet on Sunday, responded to the cryptic tweets posted by leader Ajit Pawar on government formation in Maharashtra. Pawar ruled out an alliance between the BJP and the NCP, adding that his party has unanimously decided to ally with Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena and the Congress. "There is no question of forming an alliance with @BJP4Maharashtra. NCP has unanimously decided to ally with @ShivSena and @INCMaharashtra to form the government," Sharad Pawar's tweet read. There is no question of forming an alliance with @BJP4Maharashtra. NCP has unanimously decided to ally with @ShivSena & @INCMaharashtra to form the government. Shri Ajit Pawar’s statement is false and misleading in order to create confusion and false perception among the people. — Sharad Pawar (@PawarSpeaks) November 24, 2019 × The NCP chief called Ajit Pawar’s statement "false and misleading". "Shri Ajit Pawar’s statement is false and misleading in order to create confusion and false perception among the people," he tweeted out. This comes shortly after NCP leader and Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar tweeted out saying that the BJP and the NCP will provide a stable government to Maharashtra for the next five years. I am in the NCP and shall always be in the NCP and @PawarSpeaks Saheb is our leader. Our BJP-NCP alliance shall provide a stable Government in Maharashtra for the next five years which will work sincerely for the welfare of the State and its people. — Ajit Pawar (@AjitPawarSpeaks) November 24, 2019 × "I'm in NCP and shall always be in the NCP and Sharad Pawar saheb is our leader. Our BJP-NCP alliance shall provide a stable government in Maharashtra for the next five years which will work sincerely for the welfare of the state and its people," Ajit Pawar's tweet read.

Ajit Pawar's statement is false and misleading, no question of forming an alliance with BJP: Sharad Pawar

Shiv Sena chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-will-not-stay-asleep-if-bjp-tries-to-break-shiv-sena-uddhav-thackeray-264044">Uddhav Thackeray </a>and party leader Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday reached Renaissance Hotel, in Mumbai, where Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MLAs are staying since yesterday night.

The Nationalist Congress Party had on Saturday moved 44 MLAs to Renaissance Hotel in Mumbai. NCP MLA Manikrao Kakate, who was missing since yesterday and who reportedly accompanied Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar to the Governor`s residence had also reached the Renaissance hotel on Sunday morning.

Earlier in the day, NCP chief Sharad Pawar had also reached the hotel to meet MLAs of his party.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and party leader Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday reached Renaissance Hotel, in Mumbai, where Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MLAs are staying since yesterday night.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and party leader Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday reached Renaissance Hotel, in Mumbai, where Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) MLAs are staying since yesterday night. The Nationalist Congress Party had on Saturday moved 44 MLAs to Renaissance Hotel in Mumbai. NCP MLA Manikrao Kakate, who was missing since yesterday and who reportedly accompanied Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar to the Governor`s residence had also reached the Renaissance hotel on Sunday morning. Earlier in the day, NCP chief Sharad Pawar had also reached the hotel to meet MLAs of his party.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and son Aaditya reach Mumbai hotel to meet NCP MLAs

Nationalist Congress Party's Ajit Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister&nbsp;of Maharashtra on Saturday. Reacting to the latest development Shiv Sena's&nbsp;leader Sanjay Raut&nbsp;said Ajit Pawar, nephew of NCP supremo Sharad Pawar,&nbsp;backstabbed people of Maharashtra.

Maharashtra government deadlock ended on Saturday as Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari sworn in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devendra-fadnavis-takes-oath-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-cm-263978">Devendra Fadnavis</a> and Ajit Pawar as chief minister and deputy chief minister respectively on Saturday morning.&nbsp;

"Sharad Pawar has nothing to do with this, Ajit Pawar has backstabbed the people of Maharashtra," Raut said during a press conference in Mumbai.

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Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Sharad Pawar saheb has nothing to do with this, Ajit Pawar has backstabbed the people of Maharashtra <a href="https://t.co/L5HtyMtiWf">pic.twitter.com/L5HtyMtiWf</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1198091373687164929?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Uddhav Thackeray ji and Sharad Pawar ji are in touch and will meet today also; they might also address the media together. But the fact is that Ajit Pawar and the MLAs supporting him have insulted Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Maharashtra," Sanjay Raut also said.

Meanwhile, NCP supremo Sharad Pawar called Ajit Pawar's decision to support the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-do-not-support-or-endorse-ajit-pawars-decision-to-support-bjp-sharad-pawar-on-ajit-decision-to-support-bjp-263991"> BJP to form the Maharashtra Government is his "personal"</a> and not that of the NCP.

''We place on record that we do not support or endorse this decision of his (Ajit Pawar), he said.

The latest development came as a major twist as a day earlier Sharad Pawar had announced that new Maharashtra government would be led by Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackray.

"We all have consensus on the name of Uddhav Thackeray as Chief Minister," Pawar had said after the first joint meeting of the three parties, Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena.&nbsp;

Uddhav Thackeray had also said "positive" discussion took place on almost all the issues.

Shiv Sena has been an old ally of BJP and fought in alliance with the latter in recently held Assembly polls.&nbsp;But the alliance broke over Shiv Sena's demand for sharing the chief minister's post as it was rejected by BJP.

In the last month's polls, the BJP won 105 seats and Shiv Sena 56, while the Congress-NCP combine won 98 seats.

(With inputs from agencies)

 
&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party's Ajit Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra on Saturday. Reacting to the latest development Shiv Sena's leader Sanjay Raut said Ajit Pawar, nephew of NCP supremo Sharad Pawar, backstabbed people of Maharashtra.

Nationalist Congress Party's Ajit Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra on Saturday. Reacting to the latest development Shiv Sena's leader Sanjay Raut said Ajit Pawar, nephew of NCP supremo Sharad Pawar, backstabbed people of Maharashtra. Maharashtra government deadlock ended on Saturday as Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari sworn in Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar as chief minister and deputy chief minister respectively on Saturday morning. "Sharad Pawar has nothing to do with this, Ajit Pawar has backstabbed the people of Maharashtra," Raut said during a press conference in Mumbai. Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Sharad Pawar saheb has nothing to do with this, Ajit Pawar has backstabbed the people of Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/L5HtyMtiWf — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2019 × "Uddhav Thackeray ji and Sharad Pawar ji are in touch and will meet today also; they might also address the media together. But the fact is that Ajit Pawar and the MLAs supporting him have insulted Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Maharashtra," Sanjay Raut also said. Meanwhile, NCP supremo Sharad Pawar called Ajit Pawar's decision to support the BJP to form the Maharashtra Government is his "personal" and not that of the NCP. ''We place on record that we do not support or endorse this decision of his (Ajit Pawar), he said. The latest development came as a major twist as a day earlier Sharad Pawar had announced that new Maharashtra government would be led by Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackray. "We all have consensus on the name of Uddhav Thackeray as Chief Minister," Pawar had said after the first joint meeting of the three parties, Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena. Uddhav Thackeray had also said "positive" discussion took place on almost all the issues. Shiv Sena has been an old ally of BJP and fought in alliance with the latter in recently held Assembly polls. But the alliance broke over Shiv Sena's demand for sharing the chief minister's post as it was rejected by BJP. In the last month's polls, the BJP won 105 seats and Shiv Sena 56, while the Congress-NCP combine won 98 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Sharad Pawar has nothing to do with this, Ajit backstabbed people of Maharashtra: Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut

Ajit Pawar's decision to support the BJP to form the Maharashtra Government is his personal decision and not that of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), said the party chief Sharad Pawar in a tweet minutes after the Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari sworn in Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar as chief minister and deputy chief minister respectively on Saturday morning.

Ajit Pawar's decision to support the BJP to form the Maharashtra Government is his personal decision and not that of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), said the party chief Sharad Pawar in a tweet minutes after the Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari sworn in Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar as chief minister and deputy chief minister respectively on Saturday morning. ''We place on record that we do not support or endorse this decision of his (Ajit Pawar), he added. Ajit Pawar's decision to support the BJP to form the Maharashtra Government is his personal decision and not that of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). We place on record that we do not support or endorse this decision of his. — Sharad Pawar (@PawarSpeaks) November 23, 2019 × Meanwhile, news agency ANI reported quoting sources that Sharad Pawar had given his assent to Ajit Pawar and was part of the discussions for Devendra Fadnavis led Maharashtra Government formation. Ajit Pawar is the leader of Parliamentary board of NCP and no decision of the party is taken without Sharad Pawar’s assent, the ANI report added quoting the sources. In a surprising turn of events, Bharatiya Janata Party's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra CM for the second consecutive term while Nationalist Congres Party Supremo Sharad Pawar's nephew Ajit Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister. As the Maharashtra government impasse ended, the latest development comes as a major twist as a day earlier Sharad Pawar had announced that new Maharashtra government would be led by Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackray. "We all have consensus on the name of Uddhav Thackeray as Chief Minister," Pawar had said after the first joint meeting of the three parties, Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena. Uddhav Thackeray had also said "positive" discussion took place on almost all the issues. Shiv Sena has been an old ally of BJP and fought recently held Assembly polls in alliance with latter. But the alliance broke over Shiv Sena's demand of sharing the chief minister's post which was rejected by BJP. In the last month's polls, the BJP won 105 seats and Shiv Sena 56, while the Congress-NCP combine won 98 seats. (With inputs from ANI)

We do not support or endorse Ajit Pawar's decision to support BJP: NCP chief  Sharad Pawar

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Saturday reacted to the dramatic chain of events in Maharashtra. The minister said that he had earlier said that anything can happen in cricket and politics and the recent chain of events in Maharashtra exhibits the same.&nbsp;

"I had earlier said anything can happen in cricket and politics, now you can understand what I meant," Gadkari said.&nbsp;

On Friday the minister had said that ideological differences exist among the Congress, the Shiv Sena and the NCP and that even if the triad forms a government, "it will not go much ahead".

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Union Minister &amp; BJP leader, Nitin Gadkari on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MaharashtraGovtFormation?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MaharashtraGovtFormation</a>: I had earlier said anything can happen in cricket and politics, now you can understand what I meant. <a href="https://t.co/Lv9Gc65tKQ">pic.twitter.com/Lv9Gc65tKQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1198167942006857728?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"This (Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress) is an alliance of opportunism, they will not be able to give Maharashtra a stable Government," Gadkari said as reported by news agency ANI.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Bharatiya Janata Party's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-will-not-stay-asleep-if-bjp-tries-to-break-shiv-sena-uddhav-thackeray-264044">Maharashtra's Chief Minister</a> for the second consecutive term after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-will-not-stay-asleep-if-bjp-tries-to-break-shiv-sena-uddhav-thackeray-264044">government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar</a>.

The oath was administered by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister of the state.

Accusing BJP of manipulating EVMs during polls, Uddhav Thackeray said everyone knows what Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj did when betrayed and attacked from the back.

Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar said no NCP leader or worker is in favour of an NCP-BJP government and added that Ajit Pawar's decision was against the party line.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Saturday reacted to the dramatic chain of events in Maharashtra. The minister said that he had earlier said that anything can happen in cricket and politics and the recent chain of events in Maharashtra exhibits the same.

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Saturday reacted to the dramatic chain of events in Maharashtra. The minister said that he had earlier said that anything can happen in cricket and politics and the recent chain of events in Maharashtra exhibits the same. "I had earlier said anything can happen in cricket and politics, now you can understand what I meant," Gadkari said. On Friday the minister had said that ideological differences exist among the Congress, the Shiv Sena and the NCP and that even if the triad forms a government, "it will not go much ahead". Union Minister & BJP leader, Nitin Gadkari on #MaharashtraGovtFormation: I had earlier said anything can happen in cricket and politics, now you can understand what I meant. pic.twitter.com/Lv9Gc65tKQ — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2019 × "This (Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress) is an alliance of opportunism, they will not be able to give Maharashtra a stable Government," Gadkari said as reported by news agency ANI. Earlier in the day, Bharatiya Janata Party's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra's Chief Minister for the second consecutive term after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar. The oath was administered by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan, news agency ANI reported. Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister of the state. Accusing BJP of manipulating EVMs during polls, Uddhav Thackeray said everyone knows what Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj did when betrayed and attacked from the back. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar said no NCP leader or worker is in favour of an NCP-BJP government and added that Ajit Pawar's decision was against the party line.

I had said anything can happen in politics, now you know what I meant: Gadkari on Maharashtra turmoil

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will elect new legislative&nbsp;leader, party chief Sharad Pawar said on Saturday after he was removed from the position.&nbsp;

In a surprising turn of events, Ajit Pawar on Saturday joined hands with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra. While BJP's Devendra Fadnavis became the Chief Minister and took oath for the second consecutive term.

Addressing a press conference in Mumbai along with Shiv Sena's Uddhav Thackray, Sharad Pawar said, "Today, a new NCP legislative party leader will be elected here (Mumbai) at 4 pm."

"Action against Ajit Pawar will be taken as per the procedure," Sarad Pawar also said.

Earlier in the day, reacting to the developments, Sharad Pawar said it was Ajit's personal decision to join hands with BJP and not of the NCP's.

"Ajit Pawar's decision to support the BJP to form the Maharashtra Government is his personal decision and not that of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). We place on record that we do not support or endorse this decision of his," he tweeted.

The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP, and Shiv Sena had seemingly reached the final stage on Friday.&nbsp;

On Friday, Sharad Pawar had claimed that there was a consensus on Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray as chief minister of the alliance government.

The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

(With inputs from agencies)

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will elect new legislative leader, party chief Sharad Pawar said on Saturday after he was removed from the position. In a surprising turn of events, Ajit Pawar on Saturday joined hands with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will elect new legislative leader, party chief Sharad Pawar said on Saturday after he was removed from the position. In a surprising turn of events, Ajit Pawar on Saturday joined hands with Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and took oath as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra. While BJP's Devendra Fadnavis became the Chief Minister and took oath for the second consecutive term. Addressing a press conference in Mumbai along with Shiv Sena's Uddhav Thackray, Sharad Pawar said, "Today, a new NCP legislative party leader will be elected here (Mumbai) at 4 pm." "Action against Ajit Pawar will be taken as per the procedure," Sarad Pawar also said. Earlier in the day, reacting to the developments, Sharad Pawar said it was Ajit's personal decision to join hands with BJP and not of the NCP's. "Ajit Pawar's decision to support the BJP to form the Maharashtra Government is his personal decision and not that of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). We place on record that we do not support or endorse this decision of his," he tweeted. The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP, and Shiv Sena had seemingly reached the final stage on Friday. On Friday, Sharad Pawar had claimed that there was a consensus on Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray as chief minister of the alliance government. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. (With inputs from agencies)

Maharashtra: NCP to name new legislative leader after it sacked Ajit Pawar

Senior Shiv Sena leader claimed on Saturday that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has been blackmailed and whosoever is behind this act will be exposed soon.&nbsp;

Earlier today, in a massive turn of events, Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari sworn in BJP's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devendra-fadnavis-takes-oath-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-cm-263978">Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit </a>as chief minister and deputy chief minister respectively in the wee hours on Saturday. The development comes as a shock to NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena who were close to finalise&nbsp;the power-sharing deal to form government in the state.&nbsp;

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Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister again,NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy CM,oath was administered by Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan <a href="https://t.co/KrejSTXTBd">pic.twitter.com/KrejSTXTBd</a>
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&nbsp;

On Saturday morning, the President's rule in Maharahstra was revoked.

Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut said Ajit has been blackmailed and whosoever hatched this act will be exposed in Sena's mouthpiece Saamna newspaper soon. "Of the eight MLAs who had gone with Ajit Pawar, five of them returned. They were lied to, put in a car, and sort of kidnapped," Raut claimed.&nbsp;

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Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: We are in touch with Dhananjay Munde and there is a possibility of even Ajit Pawar coming back. Ajit has been blackmailed, it will be exposed who is behind this, in Saamna newspaper soon. <a href="https://t.co/vESFauyjWR">https://t.co/vESFauyjWR</a> <a href="https://t.co/DIomJ1niK2">pic.twitter.com/DIomJ1niK2</a>
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Raut also dared BJP to prove a majority in the Legislative Assembly.&nbsp;

Earlier, NCP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-do-not-support-or-endorse-ajit-pawars-decision-to-support-bjp-sharad-pawar-on-ajit-decision-to-support-bjp-263991">Sharad Pawar </a>said that Ajit's decision to support BJP was "against the party line" and all NCP MLAs who supported Ajit will be disqualified. &nbsp;

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray issued a stern warning to BJP that Maharashtra will not stay asleep if BJP tries to break Sena in a joint press conference with Sharad.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Reacting on the latest development in Maharashtra, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that all three parties: Congress, Shiv Sena and NCP are united and will defeat BJP in the floor test.

On Sunday, NCP chief said that Uddhav will lead the government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

From a few weeks, NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were working on a common minimum programme (CMP) to form government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

BJP, Shiv Sena fought election together but had a fallout over the post of chief minister. The results of Assembly elections in Maharashtra were declared on October 24 and BJP won the maximum number of seats 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress won 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. &nbsp;Support&nbsp;of at least 145 seats is required to form government in Maharashtra. 
&nbsp;

Senior Shiv Sena leader claimed on Saturday that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has been blackmailed and whosoever is behind this act will be exposed soon. Earlier today, in a massive turn of events, Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari sworn in BJP's Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit as chief minister and deputy chief minister respectively in the wee hours on Saturday.

Senior Shiv Sena leader claimed on Saturday that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has been blackmailed and whosoever is behind this act will be exposed soon. Earlier today, in a massive turn of events, Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari sworn in BJP's Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit as chief minister and deputy chief minister respectively in the wee hours on Saturday. The development comes as a shock to NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena who were close to finalise the power-sharing deal to form government in the state. Devendra Fadnavis took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister again,NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy CM,oath was administered by Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Raj Bhawan pic.twitter.com/KrejSTXTBd — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2019 × On Saturday morning, the President's rule in Maharahstra was revoked. Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut said Ajit has been blackmailed and whosoever hatched this act will be exposed in Sena's mouthpiece Saamna newspaper soon. "Of the eight MLAs who had gone with Ajit Pawar, five of them returned. They were lied to, put in a car, and sort of kidnapped," Raut claimed. Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: We are in touch with Dhananjay Munde and there is a possibility of even Ajit Pawar coming back. Ajit has been blackmailed, it will be exposed who is behind this, in Saamna newspaper soon. https://t.co/vESFauyjWR pic.twitter.com/DIomJ1niK2 — ANI (@ANI) November 23, 2019 × Raut also dared BJP to prove a majority in the Legislative Assembly. Earlier, NCP chief Sharad Pawar said that Ajit's decision to support BJP was "against the party line" and all NCP MLAs who supported Ajit will be disqualified. Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray issued a stern warning to BJP that Maharashtra will not stay asleep if BJP tries to break Sena in a joint press conference with Sharad. Reacting on the latest development in Maharashtra, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that all three parties: Congress, Shiv Sena and NCP are united and will defeat BJP in the floor test. On Sunday, NCP chief said that Uddhav will lead the government in Maharashtra. From a few weeks, NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were working on a common minimum programme (CMP) to form government in Maharashtra. BJP, Shiv Sena fought election together but had a fallout over the post of chief minister. The results of Assembly elections in Maharashtra were declared on October 24 and BJP won the maximum number of seats 105. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress won 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. Support of at least 145 seats is required to form government in Maharashtra.

Ajit Pawar was blackmailed, MLAs kidnapped: Senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar said on Saturday that his nephew Ajit Pawar's decision to lend support to BJP to form government in Maharashtra was "indiscipline" and "against the party lines".

He also cautioned party MLAs backing Ajit Pawar that they may lose their membership under the anti-defection law. Pawar, who addressed a joint press conference with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, said no NCP leader or worker is in favour of BJP-NCP government.

"Ajit Pawar's decision is against the party line and is indiscipline," he said.

The press conference came hours after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis and NCP leader Ajit Pawar were sworn in as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister in a dramatic early morning development.

The President's Rule in the state was revoked hours earlier. Pawar said NCP MLAs who have landed support to BJP or were thinking of doing so in the future will lose their membership under "anti-defection" law.

"All the MLAs who are going must know that there is an anti-defection law and the possibility of them losing their assembly membership is high. Even the voters of their respective constituency will also be angry with them," he said.

NCP MLA Rajendra Shingane, who was present at the presser, said he went to Raj Bhavan but was not aware that oath-taking ceremony was to take place.

"Ajit Pawar had called me to discuss something and from there I was taken with other MLAs to Raj Bhavan. Before we could understand the oath ceremony was complete. I rushed to Pawar Sahab and told him that I am with him," he said.

Pawar said Congress, Shiv Sena and NCP had come together to form a government. "We have the numbers to form the government. Several independent are also with us," Pawar added.

NCP won 54 seats while Shiv Sena got 56 and Congress 44. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party with 105 seats in 288-member assembly, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on a rotating Chief Minister.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar said on Saturday that his nephew Ajit Pawar's decision to lend support to BJP to form government in Maharashtra was "indiscipline" and "against the party lines".

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar said on Saturday that his nephew Ajit Pawar's decision to lend support to BJP to form government in Maharashtra was "indiscipline" and "against the party lines". He also cautioned party MLAs backing Ajit Pawar that they may lose their membership under the anti-defection law. Pawar, who addressed a joint press conference with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, said no NCP leader or worker is in favour of BJP-NCP government. "Ajit Pawar's decision is against the party line and is indiscipline," he said. The press conference came hours after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis and NCP leader Ajit Pawar were sworn in as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister in a dramatic early morning development. The President's Rule in the state was revoked hours earlier. Pawar said NCP MLAs who have landed support to BJP or were thinking of doing so in the future will lose their membership under "anti-defection" law. "All the MLAs who are going must know that there is an anti-defection law and the possibility of them losing their assembly membership is high. Even the voters of their respective constituency will also be angry with them," he said. NCP MLA Rajendra Shingane, who was present at the presser, said he went to Raj Bhavan but was not aware that oath-taking ceremony was to take place. "Ajit Pawar had called me to discuss something and from there I was taken with other MLAs to Raj Bhavan. Before we could understand the oath ceremony was complete. I rushed to Pawar Sahab and told him that I am with him," he said. Pawar said Congress, Shiv Sena and NCP had come together to form a government. "We have the numbers to form the government. Several independent are also with us," Pawar added. NCP won 54 seats while Shiv Sena got 56 and Congress 44. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party with 105 seats in 288-member assembly, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on a rotating Chief Minister.

Ajit's decision to support BJP 'against the party line': Sharad Pawar

After being sworn-in as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Saturday,<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-ncp-to-name-new-legislative-leader-after-it-sacked-ajit-pawar-264033"> NCP Ajit Pawar</a> said that it's more suitable for two parties (<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devendra-fadnavis-takes-oath-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-cm-263978">BJP-NCP</a>) to come together to form a government rather than three parties (NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena) to strive for it.

"The mandate was in clear favour to none and it was not possible for any party to form the government alone. Two-three parties have to come together to form the government however, eventually, two parties coming together and forming a government is more suitable," said Pawar.

In what can be termed as a surprising development, Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister for the second consecutive term while NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state.

The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena seemingly reached the final stage on Friday.

The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President`s Rule was imposed in the state.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After being sworn-in as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Saturday, NCP Ajit Pawar said that it's more suitable for two parties (BJP-NCP) to come together to form a government rather than three parties (NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena) to strive for it.

After being sworn-in as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Saturday, NCP Ajit Pawar said that it's more suitable for two parties (BJP-NCP) to come together to form a government rather than three parties (NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena) to strive for it. "The mandate was in clear favour to none and it was not possible for any party to form the government alone. Two-three parties have to come together to form the government however, eventually, two parties coming together and forming a government is more suitable," said Pawar. In what can be termed as a surprising development, Devendra Fadnavis on Saturday took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister for the second consecutive term while NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state. The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena seemingly reached the final stage on Friday. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President`s Rule was imposed in the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Two parties coming together to form government is more suitable: Ajit Pawar

Maharashtra election stalemate: Sharad Pawar meets Uddhav Thackeray amid speculations. Watch video to know more.

Maharashtra election stalemate: Sharad Pawar meets Uddhav Thackeray amid speculations

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-to-hold-nationwide-protests-against-rahul-gandhi-over-claims-on-rafale-deal-262327">Bharatiya Janata Party</a> (BJP) Lok Sabha member<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-court-serves-notice-to-pragya-thakur-on-petition-challenging-her-election-seeks-reply-in-4-days-240116"> Pragya Singh Thakur</a> on Thursday was nominated to the Parliamentary Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Defence.

The chairman of this Committee is Union Defence Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-committed-to-achieving-26-billion-defence-industry-by-2025-rajnath-singh-262818">Rajnath Singh</a>.&nbsp;She is one of the accused in the Malegaon blasts case and was granted bail by the Bombay High court on health grounds in April 2017 after charges against her under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act were dropped by the National Investigation Agency.

Thakur also fought the Lok Sabha elections from Madhya Pradesh and defeated Congress leader Digvijaya Singh by a good margin of votes.

Apart from Thakur, Dr Farooq Abdullah, Chhedi Paswan, Supriya Sule, Sharad Pawar and JP Nadda have also been nominated for the 21-member parliamentary consultative committee.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Lok Sabha member Pragya Singh Thakur on Thursday was nominated to the Parliamentary Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Defence.

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Lok Sabha member Pragya Singh Thakur on Thursday was nominated to the Parliamentary Consultative Committee of the Ministry of Defence. The chairman of this Committee is Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. She is one of the accused in the Malegaon blasts case and was granted bail by the Bombay High court on health grounds in April 2017 after charges against her under the Maharashtra Control of Organised Crime Act were dropped by the National Investigation Agency. Thakur also fought the Lok Sabha elections from Madhya Pradesh and defeated Congress leader Digvijaya Singh by a good margin of votes. Apart from Thakur, Dr Farooq Abdullah, Chhedi Paswan, Supriya Sule, Sharad Pawar and JP Nadda have also been nominated for the 21-member parliamentary consultative committee.

Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur nominated to Rajnath Singh-led defence ministry panel

Sharad Pawar, the chief of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today in parliament to discuss the issue of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-arrives-in-delhi-to-meet-sonia-gandhi-on-maharashtra-government-formation-262859">Maharashtra farmers</a>.

The meeting between both the leaders will begin at 12 noon, the news agency ANI reported.

NCP leader Nawab Malik said, "In Maharashtra, farmers have faced huge damage due to unseasonable rains. Pawar will demand relief package for the farmers from the Prime Minister".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-chances-for-mid-term-elections-in-maharashtra-stable-government-will-be-formed-sharad-pawar-262490">Farmers in the state</a> have suffered heavy losses due to ongoing heavy rain, especially in Nashik and nearby areas.&nbsp;

On November 15, Pawar promised to speak to the central government and the concerned ministers to assist the farmers.&nbsp;

He also took notice of crop losses in the area due to unseasonal rain and directed government officials in the district to conduct surveys of the destroyed crops.

(With inputs from ANI)

Sharad Pawar, the chief of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today in parliament to discuss the issue of Maharashtra farmers.

Sharad Pawar, the chief of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi today in parliament to discuss the issue of Maharashtra farmers. The meeting between both the leaders will begin at 12 noon, the news agency ANI reported. NCP leader Nawab Malik said, "In Maharashtra, farmers have faced huge damage due to unseasonable rains. Pawar will demand relief package for the farmers from the Prime Minister". Farmers in the state have suffered heavy losses due to ongoing heavy rain, especially in Nashik and nearby areas. On November 15, Pawar promised to speak to the central government and the concerned ministers to assist the farmers. He also took notice of crop losses in the area due to unseasonal rain and directed government officials in the district to conduct surveys of the destroyed crops. (With inputs from ANI)

Sharad Pawar will discuss Maharashtra farmers' issues with PM Modi today

Amidst the power struggle in Maharashtra, NCP chief Sharad Pawar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss the farmer crisis in the state.&nbsp;

"Due to the prevalence of Presidential Rule in the state, your urgent intervention is highly necessitated. I shall be grateful if you take immediate steps to initiate massive relief measures and ameliorate the miseries of the distressed farmers" Pawar wrote in a letter to the prime minister.&nbsp;

Interestingly, NCP is in talks with Shiv Sena and Congress regarding the government formation in Maharashtra. However, new political scenario might create in <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/maharashtra-political-crisis-top-leaders-of-ncp-and-congress-to-meet-in-new-delhi-today-263293">Maharashtra</a> with Pawar-Modi meet. The government in Maharashtra can also be formed if NCP and BJP come together.&nbsp;

"I have collected data on crop damage from two districts, but damage because of excessive rains extends to rest of Maharashtra, including Marathwada and Vidarbha. I am collecting details and information regarding the same, which should be sent to you at the earliest," Pawar added.

Farmers have not yet received any loan waiver and in the wake of recent damage, the current farm loans should also be waived, Pawar wrote. &nbsp;

Earlier on Monday, PM Modi praised NCP and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) for following the parliamentary norms in a address to the Rajya Sabha (Upper House). The prime minister also added that his own party should learn from them. &nbsp;

Pawar also met Congress chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-arrives-in-delhi-to-meet-sonia-gandhi-on-maharashtra-government-formation-262859">Sonia Gandhi </a>on Monday at her residence in Delhi but denied any talks regarding government formation in the state. Both Congress and NCP leaders will meet on Wednesday in the national capital regarding the common minimum programme (CMP) prepared by three parties 
including the Shiv Sena to form government in the state.&nbsp;

Earlier, Shiv Sena and BJP, who came together for elections in Maharashtra, had a fallout over power sharing agreement in the state. Shiv Sena claims that both parties agreed upon a 50:50 power sharing deal in which chief ministers from both the parties will hold office for a period of 2.5 years. However, BJP denies this claim.

In the Maharashtra Assembly elections that were concluded on October 21, BJP won the maximum number of seats 105. &nbsp;Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress won 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. A majority of 144 seats is required to form government in the state.&nbsp;

Amidst the power struggle in Maharashtra, NCP chief Sharad Pawar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss the farmer crisis in the state. "Due to the prevalence of Presidential Rule in the state, your urgent intervention is highly necessitated.

Amidst the power struggle in Maharashtra, NCP chief Sharad Pawar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday to discuss the farmer crisis in the state. "Due to the prevalence of Presidential Rule in the state, your urgent intervention is highly necessitated. I shall be grateful if you take immediate steps to initiate massive relief measures and ameliorate the miseries of the distressed farmers" Pawar wrote in a letter to the prime minister. Interestingly, NCP is in talks with Shiv Sena and Congress regarding the government formation in Maharashtra. However, new political scenario might create in Maharashtra with Pawar-Modi meet. The government in Maharashtra can also be formed if NCP and BJP come together. "I have collected data on crop damage from two districts, but damage because of excessive rains extends to rest of Maharashtra, including Marathwada and Vidarbha. I am collecting details and information regarding the same, which should be sent to you at the earliest," Pawar added. Farmers have not yet received any loan waiver and in the wake of recent damage, the current farm loans should also be waived, Pawar wrote. Earlier on Monday, PM Modi praised NCP and Biju Janata Dal (BJD) for following the parliamentary norms in a address to the Rajya Sabha (Upper House). The prime minister also added that his own party should learn from them. Pawar also met Congress chief Sonia Gandhi on Monday at her residence in Delhi but denied any talks regarding government formation in the state. Both Congress and NCP leaders will meet on Wednesday in the national capital regarding the common minimum programme (CMP) prepared by three parties including the Shiv Sena to form government in the state. Earlier, Shiv Sena and BJP, who came together for elections in Maharashtra, had a fallout over power sharing agreement in the state. Shiv Sena claims that both parties agreed upon a 50:50 power sharing deal in which chief ministers from both the parties will hold office for a period of 2.5 years. However, BJP denies this claim. In the Maharashtra Assembly elections that were concluded on October 21, 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 the state.

Sharad Pawar meets PM Narendra Modi to discuss farmer crisis in Maharashtra

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-cm-will-be-from-shiv-sena-says-senior-ncp-leader-262295">Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)</a> chief Sharad Pawar arrived in Delhi today to hold a meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi to discuss the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra.

"There is a meeting today," said Pawar when asked about his meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi.

Earlier in the day, NCP leader Nawab Malik had stated that the two leaders will meet 4 pm and things will speed up towards the formation of a government in Maharashtra the meeting.

After the Sharad-Sonia meeting, leaders of Congress and NCP will sit down together on Tuesday to discuss the government formation in the state, Malik had said.

The NCP held a core committee meeting at party chief Sharad Pawar's residence in Pune on Sunday. Maharashtra NCP chief Jayant Patil and Legislative Party leader Ajit Pawar were among the prominent leaders present at the meeting.

"The core committee arrived at the conclusion that President's Rule should end in Maharashtra and an alternate government should be formed at the earliest," Malik had said.

Maharashtra came under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-placed-under-presidents-rule-after-parties-fail-to-claim-power-261610">President's Rule</a> earlier this week after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. 
BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief

Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP only to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor BS Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which the President's Rule was imposed in the state on Tuesday.

The Shiv Sena is now in parleys with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state.

The BJP won 105 seats in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/haryana-maharashtra-assembly-polls-bjp-becomes-a-victim-of-its-own-expectations-258258">288-member assembly</a> followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar arrived in Delhi today to hold a meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi to discuss the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar arrived in Delhi today to hold a meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi to discuss the prospects of government formation in Maharashtra. "There is a meeting today," said Pawar when asked about his meeting with Congress Interim President Sonia Gandhi. Earlier in the day, NCP leader Nawab Malik had stated that the two leaders will meet 4 pm and things will speed up towards the formation of a government in Maharashtra the meeting. After the Sharad-Sonia meeting, leaders of Congress and NCP will sit down together on Tuesday to discuss the government formation in the state, Malik had said. The NCP held a core committee meeting at party chief Sharad Pawar's residence in Pune on Sunday. Maharashtra NCP chief Jayant Patil and Legislative Party leader Ajit Pawar were among the prominent leaders present at the meeting. "The core committee arrived at the conclusion that President's Rule should end in Maharashtra and an alternate government should be formed at the earliest," Malik had said. Maharashtra came under President's Rule earlier this week after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP only to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor BS Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which the President's Rule was imposed in the state on Tuesday. The Shiv Sena is now in parleys with the Congress and NCP to form a government in the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Sharad Pawar arrives in Delhi to meet Sonia Gandhi on Maharashtra govt formation

Nationalist Congress Party Chief (NCP) chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-congress-leaders-meet-sharad-pawar-to-discuss-government-formation-261599">Sharad Pawar</a> said that there are no chances of 'mid-term' elections in the state and a stable government would be formed sooner or later. 
 
"Since attempts to form a government have started so sooner or later the government would be formed. There are no chances of mid-term elections but a stable government would be formed that will last for 5 years," said Sharad Pawar, addressing a press conference here on Friday. 
 
Recently, the Congress and the NCP, which fought the assembly polls together, and the Shiv Sena have prepared a draft Common Minimum Programme (CMP). 
 
Amid discussions over formation of government in Maharashtra, Congress president Sonia Gandhi and NCP Chief would meet on Sunday to discuss their next course of action. 
 
Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, who is Congress' in-charge for Maharashtra, said on Friday that his party alone cannot take decisions and the two leaders will meet on Sunday. 
 
"Congress alone can't decide things. NCP chief Sharad Pawar and AICC president Sonia Gandhi will sit together on November 17 and discuss the next course of action. They will decide how to solve this problem. Only after that, the other actions will follow," Kharge told ANI. 
 
The three parties are having talks for the formation of the non-BJP government in the state where the President's Rule was imposed earlier this week. 
 
The Shiv Sena and the BJP, who had fought the polls together, could not form the government due to differences over power-sharing. 
 
The BJP emerged as the single-largest party in the state with 105 seats in 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. 
 
Meanwhile, a joint delegation of Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Congress leaders has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhi-dials-sharad-pawar-sends-top-leaders-to-mumbai-261553">sought time from Maharashtra Governor</a> Bhagat Singh Koshyari for a meeting on Saturday to discuss farmers' issues.

Nationalist Congress Party Chief (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar said that there are no chances of 'mid-term' elections in the state and a stable government would be formed sooner or later.

Nationalist Congress Party Chief (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar said that there are no chances of 'mid-term' elections in the state and a stable government would be formed sooner or later. "Since attempts to form a government have started so sooner or later the government would be formed. There are no chances of mid-term elections but a stable government would be formed that will last for 5 years," said Sharad Pawar, addressing a press conference here on Friday. Recently, the Congress and the NCP, which fought the assembly polls together, and the Shiv Sena have prepared a draft Common Minimum Programme (CMP). Amid discussions over formation of government in Maharashtra, Congress president Sonia Gandhi and NCP Chief would meet on Sunday to discuss their next course of action. Congress leader Mallikarjun Kharge, who is Congress' in-charge for Maharashtra, said on Friday that his party alone cannot take decisions and the two leaders will meet on Sunday. "Congress alone can't decide things. NCP chief Sharad Pawar and AICC president Sonia Gandhi will sit together on November 17 and discuss the next course of action. They will decide how to solve this problem. Only after that, the other actions will follow," Kharge told ANI. The three parties are having talks for the formation of the non-BJP government in the state where the President's Rule was imposed earlier this week. The Shiv Sena and the BJP, who had fought the polls together, could not form the government due to differences over power-sharing. The BJP emerged as the single-largest party in the state with 105 seats in 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. Meanwhile, a joint delegation of Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Congress leaders has sought time from Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari for a meeting on Saturday to discuss farmers' issues.

No chances for mid-term elections in Maharashtra, stable government will be formed: Sharad Pawar

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