<p>Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) (Sharad Pawar faction)&nbsp;leader Rohit Pawar was on Wednesday (Jan 24) questioned by the&nbsp;Enforcement Directorate (ED) -&nbsp;central government agency -&nbsp;in a money laundering case in the Indian state of Maharashtra, reported news agency&nbsp;ANI.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pawar, 38, the grandnephew of NCP President and veteran Indian politician Sharad Pawar, was questioned for a full day. Exiting the ED office, Pawar told reporters, "The questioning went on for 24 hours. I answered all the questions and submitted relevant documents. On February 1, I will submit the other documents requested by the officials."</p>

<p>"I cooperated with the officials... People think that all of this is politically motivated...," he added.</p>

<p>Hitting out at the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government, Pawar said that politicians like Sanjay Shirsat (Shiv Sena) and others were speaking lies and making false allegations against him and the NCP.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>"Some leaders think I'm a child in this politics," the NCP leader said adding that under Sharad Pawar's leadership, the NCP will fight against the Shinde govt in elections and will come back stronger.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The case in which the 38-year-old leader is being questioned is related to the Maharashtra State Cooperative (MSC) bank scam which involved the alleged fraudulent disbursal of loans amounting to Rs 25,000 crores. The case triggered the filing of a PIL petition in the Bombay High Court.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>The petition shedding&nbsp;light on the modus operandi of the fraud said that&nbsp;some sugar mills defaulted on the loans that were given without due diligence. These mills were attached by MSC and auctioned to various office bearers of the bank and politicians.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Wednesday evening, NCP workers held celebrations outside the ED office after Pawar's questioning was concluded.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Rohit Pawar was on Wednesday (Jan 24) questioned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) - central government agency - in a money laundering case in the Indian state of Maharashtra, reported news agency ANI.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) (Sharad Pawar faction) leader Rohit Pawar was on Wednesday (Jan 24) questioned by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) - central government agency - in a money laundering case in the Indian state of Maharashtra, reported news agency ANI. Pawar, 38, the grandnephew of NCP President and veteran Indian politician Sharad Pawar, was questioned for a full day. Exiting the ED office, Pawar told reporters, "The questioning went on for 24 hours. I answered all the questions and submitted relevant documents. On February 1, I will submit the other documents requested by the officials." "I cooperated with the officials... People think that all of this is politically motivated...," he added. Hitting out at the Eknath Shinde-led Maharashtra government, Pawar said that politicians like Sanjay Shirsat (Shiv Sena) and others were speaking lies and making false allegations against him and the NCP. #WATCH | Maharashtra: On being questioned by ED, NCP-Sharad Pawar faction leader Rohit Pawar says, "The questioning went on for 24 hours. I answered all the questions and submitted relevant documents. On February 1, I will submit the other documents requested by the officials. I… pic.twitter.com/FWlSVVujWK — ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2024 × "Some leaders think I'm a child in this politics," the NCP leader said adding that under Sharad Pawar's leadership, the NCP will fight against the Shinde govt in elections and will come back stronger. The case in which the 38-year-old leader is being questioned is related to the Maharashtra State Cooperative (MSC) bank scam which involved the alleged fraudulent disbursal of loans amounting to Rs 25,000 crores. The case triggered the filing of a PIL petition in the Bombay High Court. #WATCH | Maharashtra | NCP-Sharad Pawar faction workers celebrate as leader Rohit Pawar leaves from ED office. https://t.co/3vFjlWxVIO pic.twitter.com/ckLboMu2gB — ANI (@ANI) January 24, 2024 × The petition shedding light on the modus operandi of the fraud said that some sugar mills defaulted on the loans that were given without due diligence. These mills were attached by MSC and auctioned to various office bearers of the bank and politicians. On Wednesday evening, NCP workers held celebrations outside the ED office after Pawar's questioning was concluded. (With inputs from agencies)

India: NCP leader Rohit Pawar questioned by ED in money laundering case

<p>Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar was given the Finance and Planning portfolio on Friday, nearly two weeks after he broke away from the original party and took oath as Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister.</p>

<p>Eight of Pawar's NCP colleagues who were sworn in as ministers on July 2 were also allotted their portfolios, said a statement issued by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's office.</p>

<p>As per the statement, Dhananjay Munde has been given Agriculture, while Dilip Walse-Patil will be the Cooperative&nbsp;minister.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-noida-schools-will-remain-closed-on-friday-as-yamuna-water-level-peaks-615136">India: Noida schools will remain closed on Friday as Yamuna water level rises</a></strong></p>

<p>The other NCP ministers with their allocated ministries are Hasan Mushrif (Medical Education), Chhagan Bhujbal (Food and Civil Supplies), Dharmrao Atram (Food and Drugs Administration), Sanjay Bansode (Sports), Aditi Tatkare (Woman and Child Development) and Anil Patil (Relief, Rehabilitation and Disaster Management), it said.</p>

<p>With the inclusion of 9 NCP ministers, there are 29 cabinet ministers in Maharashtra.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-pm-modis-visit-eu-parliament-slams-india-over-manipur-violence-new-delhi-retorts-615174">EU Parliament condemns India over Manipur violence, New Delhi slams 'colonial mindset'</a></strong></p>

<p>Shinde-led Shiv Sena MLAs apparently had objected to the allocation of Finance and Planning to Pawar.</p>

<p>With Tatkare's induction, for the first time, a woman MLA has been given a cabinet berth in the Shinde government.</p>

<p>In the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, Tatkare was a minister of state with several portfolios.</p>

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Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar was given the Finance and Planning portfolio on Friday, nearly two weeks after he broke away from the original party and took oath as Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister.

Nationalist Congress Party leader Ajit Pawar was given the Finance and Planning portfolio on Friday, nearly two weeks after he broke away from the original party and took oath as Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister. Eight of Pawar's NCP colleagues who were sworn in as ministers on July 2 were also allotted their portfolios, said a statement issued by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's office. As per the statement, Dhananjay Munde has been given Agriculture, while Dilip Walse-Patil will be the Cooperative minister. Also read | India: Noida schools will remain closed on Friday as Yamuna water level rises The other NCP ministers with their allocated ministries are Hasan Mushrif (Medical Education), Chhagan Bhujbal (Food and Civil Supplies), Dharmrao Atram (Food and Drugs Administration), Sanjay Bansode (Sports), Aditi Tatkare (Woman and Child Development) and Anil Patil (Relief, Rehabilitation and Disaster Management), it said. With the inclusion of 9 NCP ministers, there are 29 cabinet ministers in Maharashtra. Also read | EU Parliament condemns India over Manipur violence, New Delhi slams 'colonial mindset' Shinde-led Shiv Sena MLAs apparently had objected to the allocation of Finance and Planning to Pawar. With Tatkare's induction, for the first time, a woman MLA has been given a cabinet berth in the Shinde government. In the Uddhav Thackeray-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, Tatkare was a minister of state with several portfolios. 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.

Maharashtra: NCP ministers given portfolios, new deputy CM Ajit Pawar gets finance

Tit-for-tat expulsions and appointments in both factions of the India's Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) marked the beginning of a bitter battle for control of the party between Maharashtra deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar and his uncle and party patriarch Sharad Pawar on Monday as the stage of the confrontation shifted from the government to the party.

India: Rival camps spar, who controls NCP | Ajit Pawar

<p>Just days after he led a mutiny against his uncle Sharad Pawar,&nbsp;Maharashtra's new deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar&nbsp;said on Wednesday that he aspires to be the chief minister one day.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The faction led by Ajit Pawar also knocked on the doors of the Election Commission on Wednesday to claim the name and symbol of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) as the group is apparently leading the number game.&nbsp;The group has filed over 40 affidavits of MLAs and MPs in his support.<br />
<br />
Ajit also pointed&nbsp;to the retirement age of government servants and BJP leaders and urged NCP&nbsp;president Sharad Pawar to pass on the baton to the new generation.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Addressing the party workers, Ajit Pawar said, "IAS officers retire at 60. Even in politics, BJP leaders retire at 75. You can see the example of LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi. You (Sharad Pawar) are 83, aren't you going to stop? Give us your blessings and we will pray that you live a long life."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the Election Commission has also received a caveat from Maharashtra NCP president Jayant Patil that they have initiated a disqualification process against nine MLAs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sharad Pawar claimed that he will "not allow anyone to snatch"' the name and symbol away.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing&nbsp;party workers at Yashwantrao Chavan Centre, Pawar said, "There is no need to worry. The party symbol is with us, it is not going anywhere. The people and party workers who brought us to power are with us."&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/manipur-violence-1-beheaded-soldier-shot-mob-tries-to-loot-weapons-from-forces-612153">Manipur violence: Man beheaded, one shot dead, soldier shot; mob tries to loot weapons from forces</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>A total of 35 of 53 NCP MLAs and five of the eight MLCs were present at the party meeting held by Ajit Pawar, who joined the Shiv Sena-BJP cabinet and took oath as deputy chief minister of the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The two factions of the NCP held separate meetings in Mumbai. Both sides even appointed their own chief whips amid the ongoing political crisis in the Indian state of Maharashtra. The chief whip for the Sharad Pawar faction will be Jitendra Awhad while Anil Patil has been appointed by the Ajit faction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ajit group met at the Mumbai Education Trust (MET) premises in suburban Bandra at 11:00 am (IST) and the Sharad Pawar faction gathered at the YB Chavan Centre in south Mumbai around 1:00pm (IST) for its meeting as the battle for the party rages on.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar says, "You portrayed me as a villain in front of everyone. I still have deep respect for him (Sharad Pawar)...But you tell me, IAS officers retire at 60...even in politics<br />
- BJP leaders retire at 75. You can see the example of LK Advani… <a href="https://t.co/T2XqCzEH89">pic.twitter.com/T2XqCzEH89</a></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Amid NCP vs NCP crisis in Maharashtra, two different meetings take place simultaneously in Mumbai.<br />
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Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has called a meeting of all NCP MPs, MLAs, MLCs, District heads and State delegates at MET Bandra while Sharad Pawar has called a meeting of all members at YB… <a href="https://t.co/oe9b8z1AcV">pic.twitter.com/oe9b8z1AcV</a></p>
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<p>Sharad Pawar said, "Some of my colleagues have taken a different stand. I had called a meeting of all the leaders on 6th July where some important issue was to be discussed and some changes were to be made within the party but before that meeting, some of the leaders have taken a different stand."&nbsp;</p>

<p>With 53 NCP MLAs in the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly, Ajit would need the support of at least 36 to avoid disqualification under the anti-defection rules, and to win the claim over the party and its election symbol.</p>

<p>Both Pawar factions held separate meetings in a show of strength on Wednesday. While Ajit Pawar claimed the support of over 40 MLAs and MLCs, about 29 MLAs were seen on the stage at the meeting called by him. Sharad Pawar faction paraded 17 MLAs.<br />
<br />
The NCP has 53 MLAs in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly.</p>

<p><strong>What is anti-defection law?</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to the law, a group of lawmakers can only quit one party to join another if they have the backing of at least two-thirds of the original party's total MLAs.&nbsp;</p>

<p>It also establishes the procedure by which legislators may be disqualified and removed from their respective legislative assembly based on a petition by any other member of that House to the Presiding Officer of the legislature.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A legislator is said to have defected and switched sides if he or she leaves his or her party of choice or votes against the party leadership's wishes on a vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Just days after he led a mutiny against his uncle Sharad Pawar, Maharashtra's new deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar said on Wednesday that he aspires to be the chief minister one day.

Just days after he led a mutiny against his uncle Sharad Pawar, Maharashtra's new deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar said on Wednesday that he aspires to be the chief minister one day. The faction led by Ajit Pawar also knocked on the doors of the Election Commission on Wednesday to claim the name and symbol of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) as the group is apparently leading the number game. The group has filed over 40 affidavits of MLAs and MPs in his support. Ajit also pointed to the retirement age of government servants and BJP leaders and urged NCP president Sharad Pawar to pass on the baton to the new generation. Addressing the party workers, Ajit Pawar said, "IAS officers retire at 60. Even in politics, BJP leaders retire at 75. You can see the example of LK Advani and Murli Manohar Joshi. You (Sharad Pawar) are 83, aren't you going to stop? Give us your blessings and we will pray that you live a long life." Meanwhile, the Election Commission has also received a caveat from Maharashtra NCP president Jayant Patil that they have initiated a disqualification process against nine MLAs. Sharad Pawar claimed that he will "not allow anyone to snatch"' the name and symbol away. Addressing party workers at Yashwantrao Chavan Centre, Pawar said, "There is no need to worry. The party symbol is with us, it is not going anywhere. The people and party workers who brought us to power are with us." Also read: Manipur violence: Man beheaded, one shot dead, soldier shot; mob tries to loot weapons from forces A total of 35 of 53 NCP MLAs and five of the eight MLCs were present at the party meeting held by Ajit Pawar, who joined the Shiv Sena-BJP cabinet and took oath as deputy chief minister of the state. The two factions of the NCP held separate meetings in Mumbai. Both sides even appointed their own chief whips amid the ongoing political crisis in the Indian state of Maharashtra. The chief whip for the Sharad Pawar faction will be Jitendra Awhad while Anil Patil has been appointed by the Ajit faction. The Ajit group met at the Mumbai Education Trust (MET) premises in suburban Bandra at 11:00 am (IST) and the Sharad Pawar faction gathered at the YB Chavan Centre in south Mumbai around 1:00pm (IST) for its meeting as the battle for the party rages on. #WATCH | Maharashtra Deputy CM Ajit Pawar says, "You portrayed me as a villain in front of everyone. I still have deep respect for him (Sharad Pawar)...But you tell me, IAS officers retire at 60...even in politics - BJP leaders retire at 75. You can see the example of LK Advani… pic.twitter.com/T2XqCzEH89 — ANI (@ANI) July 5, 2023 × Amid NCP vs NCP crisis in Maharashtra, two different meetings take place simultaneously in Mumbai. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar has called a meeting of all NCP MPs, MLAs, MLCs, District heads and State delegates at MET Bandra while Sharad Pawar has called a meeting of all members at YB… pic.twitter.com/oe9b8z1AcV — ANI (@ANI) July 5, 2023 × Sharad Pawar said, "Some of my colleagues have taken a different stand. I had called a meeting of all the leaders on 6th July where some important issue was to be discussed and some changes were to be made within the party but before that meeting, some of the leaders have taken a different stand." With 53 NCP MLAs in the 288-member Maharashtra Assembly, Ajit would need the support of at least 36 to avoid disqualification under the anti-defection rules, and to win the claim over the party and its election symbol. Both Pawar factions held separate meetings in a show of strength on Wednesday. While Ajit Pawar claimed the support of over 40 MLAs and MLCs, about 29 MLAs were seen on the stage at the meeting called by him. Sharad Pawar faction paraded 17 MLAs. The NCP has 53 MLAs in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. What is anti-defection law? According to the law, a group of lawmakers can only quit one party to join another if they have the backing of at least two-thirds of the original party's total MLAs. It also establishes the procedure by which legislators may be disqualified and removed from their respective legislative assembly based on a petition by any other member of that House to the Presiding Officer of the legislature. A legislator is said to have defected and switched sides if he or she leaves his or her party of choice or votes against the party leadership's wishes on a vote. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

I want to be chief minister, says Ajit Pawar, approaches EC to claim NCP name, party symbol

<p>Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar, on Monday, while addressing a public meeting in Karad, said that the people of the Indian state of Maharashtra will not succumb to undemocratic forces.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He then said that there was a need to fight the parties creating a communal divide in the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing NCP workers and supporters at the Yashwant Chavan Samadhi in Karad, the NCP chief said, "We were serving Maharashtra under Uddhav Thackeray but our government was toppled by some people. The same happened in some other parts of the country too in Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal where the governments are working democratically, are being attacked."</p>

<p>Without mentioning his nephew Ajit Pawar's name, who led a vertical split in the party to become the deputy chief minister in the Eknath Shinde-led government, the NCP chief said that "some of our people fell prey to BJP's tactics to break other parties."</p>

<p>"Attempts are being made to create communal divide in Maharashtra and the country. We need to fight forces that create fear among peace-loving citizens," he said.</p>

<p>"We need to protect democracy in the country," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-ultimate-political-player-who-splits-ncp-to-become-deputy-cm-of-maharashtra-for-fifth-time-611296">Ajit Pawar: Ultimate political player who splits NCP to become Deputy CM of Maharashtra for fifth time</a></p>

<p>"Today, in Maharashtra and the country, a rift is being created in the society in the name of caste and religion by some groups. We tried to stand against the BJP, but unfortunately, some of us went fell prey to it. With the support of the public, we will be strengthened again. Nevertheless, the people of Maharashtra will not succumb to these undemocratic forces. Maharashtra again will go on the path of progress," Sharad Pawar said.</p>

<p>"In the next few months, we will get an opportunity to go to the people and with their help, we will push these tendencies aside and once again we will create a system that will work in the interest of the common people," he said.</p>

<h2><strong>NCP's Ajit Pawar joins NDA government</strong></h2>

<p>In yet another dramatic turn of events in the Indian state of Maharashtra, Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) senior leader Ajit Pawar, on Sunday (July 2), crossed party lines and joined the incumbent Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led state government and was sworn in as the new deputy CM of the state.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He took the oath as Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister with eight other party legislators along with him joining the National Democratic Alliance government in the state.</p>

<p>On Sunday, Ajit Pawar asserted that all MLAs are with him and that they have joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government as a party.</p>

<p>"We have all the numbers. All MLAs are with me. We are here as a party. We have informed all seniors also. The majority is given importance in a democracy. Our party is 24 years old and young leadership should come forward," Ajit Pawar said after taking oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar, on Monday, while addressing a public meeting in Karad, said that the people of the Indian state of Maharashtra will not succumb to undemocratic forces.

Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) supremo Sharad Pawar, on Monday, while addressing a public meeting in Karad, said that the people of the Indian state of Maharashtra will not succumb to undemocratic forces. He then said that there was a need to fight the parties creating a communal divide in the state. Addressing NCP workers and supporters at the Yashwant Chavan Samadhi in Karad, the NCP chief said, "We were serving Maharashtra under Uddhav Thackeray but our government was toppled by some people. The same happened in some other parts of the country too in Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal where the governments are working democratically, are being attacked." Without mentioning his nephew Ajit Pawar's name, who led a vertical split in the party to become the deputy chief minister in the Eknath Shinde-led government, the NCP chief said that "some of our people fell prey to BJP's tactics to break other parties." "Attempts are being made to create communal divide in Maharashtra and the country. We need to fight forces that create fear among peace-loving citizens," he said. "We need to protect democracy in the country," he added. Also read: Ajit Pawar: Ultimate political player who splits NCP to become Deputy CM of Maharashtra for fifth time "Today, in Maharashtra and the country, a rift is being created in the society in the name of caste and religion by some groups. We tried to stand against the BJP, but unfortunately, some of us went fell prey to it. With the support of the public, we will be strengthened again. Nevertheless, the people of Maharashtra will not succumb to these undemocratic forces. Maharashtra again will go on the path of progress," Sharad Pawar said. "In the next few months, we will get an opportunity to go to the people and with their help, we will push these tendencies aside and once again we will create a system that will work in the interest of the common people," he said. NCP's Ajit Pawar joins NDA government In yet another dramatic turn of events in the Indian state of Maharashtra, Nationalist Congress Party's (NCP) senior leader Ajit Pawar, on Sunday (July 2), crossed party lines and joined the incumbent Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led state government and was sworn in as the new deputy CM of the state. He took the oath as Maharashtra deputy Chief Minister with eight other party legislators along with him joining the National Democratic Alliance government in the state. On Sunday, Ajit Pawar asserted that all MLAs are with him and that they have joined the Shiv Sena-BJP government as a party. "We have all the numbers. All MLAs are with me. We are here as a party. We have informed all seniors also. The majority is given importance in a democracy. Our party is 24 years old and young leadership should come forward," Ajit Pawar said after taking oath as Deputy Chief Minister of Maharashtra. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

NCP chief Sharad Pawar reacts to nephew Ajit's rebellion, says 'some fell prey to BJP's tactics'

<p>The twists and turns in west Indian state Maharashtra's politics over the last four to five years has not been short of any movie plot. The political drama reached its zenith when the National Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister for the fifth time on Sunday (July 2).&nbsp;</p>

<p>This power scuffle has been going on in the state for the last three years. The last time Maharashtra politics took a steep turn was in November 2019, when Ajit’s underhand partnership with the BJP lasted a few days. On 23 November 2019, Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister with BJP, without NCP’s nod. He submitted papers with the signatures of NCP MLAs to the Governor of the State. He was on the post for less than 80 hours.</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lost-for-a-century-blind-indian-painters-scroll-resurfaces-after-100-years-611230">Lost for a century: Blind Indian painter's scroll resurfaces after 100 years</a></p>

<p>But this time, Pawar went full throttle against party lines with the support of over 40 of the NCP’s 53 MLAs. He chose to split the party even as his uncle and NCP leader Sharad Pawar was busy getting all opposition parties together to take on the BJP.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>‘Triple engine’ Government?</strong></h2>

<p>Welcoming Ajit Pawar into the fold, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said, "Now we have 1 chief minister and 2 deputy chief ministers. The double-engine government has now become triple engine. For the development of Maharashtra, I welcome Ajit Pawar and his leaders. Ajit Pawar's experience will help."</p>

<p>Shinde recently completed one year in office. He said that the parties in the government were united on the platform of state development. “Ajit Dada supported our development goals. During the previous Lok Sabha elections, NCP secured four-five seats, but it appears that they won’t get a single seat in the coming elections,” he remarked.</p>

<h2><strong>Ajit Pawar and the 'Brutus' moment in Maharashtra's NCP</strong></h2>

<p>Ajit Pawar, an influential leader in the NCP, is the nephew of the party’s supremo Sharad Pawar. He joined politics in 1982 when he was elected to the board of a cooperative sugar factory. He was then elected as a chairman of the Pune District Cooperative Bank (PDC) in 1991 and remained in the post for 16 years. During this period, he was also elected as a Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha from the Baramati constituency.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Later on, Pawar vacated his Lok Sabha seat in favour of his uncle, Sharad Pawar, who had then become the defence minister in PV Narasimha Rao’s government. Later, he was elected as a Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Baramati Assembly Constituency.</p>

<p>Pawar became the deputy CM in November 2010 for the first time after thwarting his uncle’s plan to give the position to the party’s senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal again. In a surprise move, he resigned in September 2012, following allegations against him in an irrigation scam, but came back within three months after obtaining a “clean chit” for himself from the then Congress-NCP government.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite being in several controversies, the seven-time MLA is popular among legislators. He is considered an expert in electoral management and has groomed many MLAs and even helped them to get elected. Even after the debut of Pawar’s daughter, Supriya Sule into politics, he was regarded as number two in the party.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>Pawar’s intention of taking over the party was no secret. It came out into the open when he tried to silence leaders and workers who were persuading Sharad Pawar to take back his resignation as party chief on May 2.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ajit Pawar and MVA</strong></h2>

<p>In December 2019, it was announced that Ajit Pawar would take over as deputy CM for the Maha Vikas Agadi (MVA) administration after the commencement of the winter session of the state legislature on December 16. But in 2022, due to Maharashtra’s political crisis, the Maha Vikas Agadi government collapsed due to an internal revolt in Shiv Sena.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the rebellion, the Shiv Sena group and BJP formed the government with Eknath Shinde as the CM and Pawar became the Leader of the Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Ajit Pawar’s rebellion will change political course of the state</strong></h2>

<p>Pawar’s recent move will change the political course of the NCP-Congress, leaving the equation between the two parties dwindling in the stronghold of western Maharashtra. Pawar has a good following there and knows the powerful cooperation sector.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-at-least-three-village-volunteers-killed-five-injured-after-violence-in-manipur-611149">India: At least three ‘village volunteers’ killed, five others injured after violence in Manipur</a></p>

<p>The BJP is desperate to make inroads into the sector, and with Ajit on board, it will be easier for it to vie for the 11 Lok Sabha and over 60 assembly seats in western Maharashtra. Even Supriya Sule’s Lok Sabha seat could be in danger, as Ajit has been handling affairs in Baramati.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>

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The twists and turns in west Indian state Maharashtra's politics over the last four to five years has not been short of any movie plot. The political drama reached its zenith when the National Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister for the fifth time on Sunday (July 2).

The twists and turns in west Indian state Maharashtra's politics over the last four to five years has not been short of any movie plot. The political drama reached its zenith when the National Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar took oath as the deputy chief minister for the fifth time on Sunday (July 2). This power scuffle has been going on in the state for the last three years. The last time Maharashtra politics took a steep turn was in November 2019, when Ajit’s underhand partnership with the BJP lasted a few days. On 23 November 2019, Pawar was sworn in as deputy chief minister with BJP, without NCP’s nod. He submitted papers with the signatures of NCP MLAs to the Governor of the State. He was on the post for less than 80 hours. Also Read | Lost for a century: Blind Indian painter's scroll resurfaces after 100 years But this time, Pawar went full throttle against party lines with the support of over 40 of the NCP’s 53 MLAs. He chose to split the party even as his uncle and NCP leader Sharad Pawar was busy getting all opposition parties together to take on the BJP. ‘Triple engine’ Government? Welcoming Ajit Pawar into the fold, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said, "Now we have 1 chief minister and 2 deputy chief ministers. The double-engine government has now become triple engine. For the development of Maharashtra, I welcome Ajit Pawar and his leaders. Ajit Pawar's experience will help." Shinde recently completed one year in office. He said that the parties in the government were united on the platform of state development. “Ajit Dada supported our development goals. During the previous Lok Sabha elections, NCP secured four-five seats, but it appears that they won’t get a single seat in the coming elections,” he remarked. Ajit Pawar and the 'Brutus' moment in Maharashtra's NCP Ajit Pawar, an influential leader in the NCP, is the nephew of the party’s supremo Sharad Pawar. He joined politics in 1982 when he was elected to the board of a cooperative sugar factory. He was then elected as a chairman of the Pune District Cooperative Bank (PDC) in 1991 and remained in the post for 16 years. During this period, he was also elected as a Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha from the Baramati constituency. Also Read | Drone hovers over Indian PM Modi's residence in New Delhi, probe underway Later on, Pawar vacated his Lok Sabha seat in favour of his uncle, Sharad Pawar, who had then become the defence minister in PV Narasimha Rao’s government. Later, he was elected as a Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Baramati Assembly Constituency. Pawar became the deputy CM in November 2010 for the first time after thwarting his uncle’s plan to give the position to the party’s senior leader Chhagan Bhujbal again. In a surprise move, he resigned in September 2012, following allegations against him in an irrigation scam, but came back within three months after obtaining a “clean chit” for himself from the then Congress-NCP government. Despite being in several controversies, the seven-time MLA is popular among legislators. He is considered an expert in electoral management and has groomed many MLAs and even helped them to get elected. Even after the debut of Pawar’s daughter, Supriya Sule into politics, he was regarded as number two in the party. Also Read | More lifting-power for Indian rockets, ISRO test fires India's most powerful rocket engine Pawar’s intention of taking over the party was no secret. It came out into the open when he tried to silence leaders and workers who were persuading Sharad Pawar to take back his resignation as party chief on May 2. Ajit Pawar and MVA In December 2019, it was announced that Ajit Pawar would take over as deputy CM for the Maha Vikas Agadi (MVA) administration after the commencement of the winter session of the state legislature on December 16. But in 2022, due to Maharashtra’s political crisis, the Maha Vikas Agadi government collapsed due to an internal revolt in Shiv Sena. After the rebellion, the Shiv Sena group and BJP formed the government with Eknath Shinde as the CM and Pawar became the Leader of the Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. Ajit Pawar’s rebellion will change political course of the state Pawar’s recent move will change the political course of the NCP-Congress, leaving the equation between the two parties dwindling in the stronghold of western Maharashtra. Pawar has a good following there and knows the powerful cooperation sector. Also Read | India: At least three ‘village volunteers’ killed, five others injured after violence in Manipur The BJP is desperate to make inroads into the sector, and with Ajit on board, it will be easier for it to vie for the 11 Lok Sabha and over 60 assembly seats in western Maharashtra. Even Supriya Sule’s Lok Sabha seat could be in danger, as Ajit has been handling affairs in Baramati. (With inputs from agencies) 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.

Ajit Pawar: Political player who split NCP to become deputy CM of Maharashtra for fifth time

<p>Chief of India's prominent political party Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Sharad Pawar has appointed Supriya Sule and Praful Patel as the working presidents of the party. Supriya Sule is Pawar's daughter, a seasoned politician and Member of Parliament (MP) in the Lok Sabha (lower house in the Indian parliament). Meanwhile, Praful Patel has held various important positions in both the state and central governments</p>

<p>The announcement was made during the 25th-anniversary celebration of the NCP, a political party founded by Sharad Pawar and PA Sangma in 1999. The presence of Ajit Pawar, a key figure in the NCP and nephew of Sharad Pawar, added significance to the announcement.</p>

<h2><strong>Rejection of Sharad Pawar's resignation</strong></h2>

<p>Sharad Pawar had offered to resign from the presidency of the party last month, which led to strong protests from party members and other political leaders.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>However, an NCP panel formed to deliberate on his resignation rejected it on May 5, urging him to continue as the party president.</p>

<h2><strong>Division of responsibilities, focus on elections</strong></h2>

<p>According to NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal, Supriya Sule and Praful Patel have been appointed as working presidents to divide the election work, as well as the responsibilities related to Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They have been made the working Presidents so that the election work and Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha work can be divided. They have been allotted more responsibilities on their shoulders because elections are near. This is for handling the 2024 Lok Sabha election work," NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal told reporters.</p>

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<p>With the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in 2024, the party aims to strengthen its preparations and focus on the crucial election work.</p>

<h2><strong>Opposition unity and future plans</strong></h2>

<p>During the event, Sharad Pawar also addressed the upcoming opposition meeting in Patna, emphasizing the need for unity among opposition parties.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"All opposition parties have to come together, I am sure the people of this country will help us. On 23rd we all are meet in Bihar, discuss and come up with a programme and will travel across the country and present it to the people," Pawar said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Exclusive inside view of the INS Hansa Goa, home to a wide-range fleet of Naval aircraft</strong></p>

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<p>He expressed confidence that the people of the country would support them and stated that they would discuss and devise a joint plan during the meeting. The intention is to travel across the country, presenting the plan to the people.</p>

<p>After witnessing the emotional protests and receiving support from party workers, Sharad Pawar decided to withdraw his resignation as the national president of the NCP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“I can't disrespect your sentiments. Due to your love, I am respecting the demand that was made to me to withdraw my resignation and the resolution that was passed by senior NCP leaders. I withdraw my decision to step down as the national president of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)," Pawar had said.</p>

<p>He acknowledged the sentiments of the party members and stated his commitment to work towards education, agriculture, cooperation, sports, culture, and various other areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Additionally, he expressed a keen focus on addressing the concerns of the youth, students, workers, Dalits, tribals, and other marginalized sections of society.</p>

<p>With the appointment of Supriya Sule and Praful Patel as working presidents, Sharad Pawar aims to strengthen the NCP's organizational structure and prepare for upcoming elections while fostering unity within the party and the opposition.</p>

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Chief of India's prominent political party Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Sharad Pawar has appointed Supriya Sule and Praful Patel as the working presidents of the party.

Chief of India's prominent political party Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Sharad Pawar has appointed Supriya Sule and Praful Patel as the working presidents of the party. Supriya Sule is Pawar's daughter, a seasoned politician and Member of Parliament (MP) in the Lok Sabha (lower house in the Indian parliament). Meanwhile, Praful Patel has held various important positions in both the state and central governments The announcement was made during the 25th-anniversary celebration of the NCP, a political party founded by Sharad Pawar and PA Sangma in 1999. The presence of Ajit Pawar, a key figure in the NCP and nephew of Sharad Pawar, added significance to the announcement. Rejection of Sharad Pawar's resignation Sharad Pawar had offered to resign from the presidency of the party last month, which led to strong protests from party members and other political leaders. Also Read | San Francisco: Nine people shot at in yet another 'targeted' shooting incident However, an NCP panel formed to deliberate on his resignation rejected it on May 5, urging him to continue as the party president. Division of responsibilities, focus on elections According to NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal, Supriya Sule and Praful Patel have been appointed as working presidents to divide the election work, as well as the responsibilities related to Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha. "They have been made the working Presidents so that the election work and Rajya Sabha and Lok Sabha work can be divided. They have been allotted more responsibilities on their shoulders because elections are near. This is for handling the 2024 Lok Sabha election work," NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal told reporters. Also Read | Archbishop of Canterbury urges Anglican church of Uganda to reject anti-LGBT law With the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in 2024, the party aims to strengthen its preparations and focus on the crucial election work. Opposition unity and future plans During the event, Sharad Pawar also addressed the upcoming opposition meeting in Patna, emphasizing the need for unity among opposition parties. "All opposition parties have to come together, I am sure the people of this country will help us. On 23rd we all are meet in Bihar, discuss and come up with a programme and will travel across the country and present it to the people," Pawar said. Watch | Exclusive inside view of the INS Hansa Goa, home to a wide-range fleet of Naval aircraft × He expressed confidence that the people of the country would support them and stated that they would discuss and devise a joint plan during the meeting. The intention is to travel across the country, presenting the plan to the people. After witnessing the emotional protests and receiving support from party workers, Sharad Pawar decided to withdraw his resignation as the national president of the NCP. “I can't disrespect your sentiments. Due to your love, I am respecting the demand that was made to me to withdraw my resignation and the resolution that was passed by senior NCP leaders. I withdraw my decision to step down as the national president of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP)," Pawar had said. He acknowledged the sentiments of the party members and stated his commitment to work towards education, agriculture, cooperation, sports, culture, and various other areas. Additionally, he expressed a keen focus on addressing the concerns of the youth, students, workers, Dalits, tribals, and other marginalized sections of society. With the appointment of Supriya Sule and Praful Patel as working presidents, Sharad Pawar aims to strengthen the NCP's organizational structure and prepare for upcoming elections while fostering unity within the party and the opposition. 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: NCP chief Sharad Pawar names Praful Patel, daughter Supriya Sule as party's working presidents

Nationalist Congress Party chief Sharad Pawar, who dropped a resignation bombshell on May 2, said he has reversed his decision to quit as party supremo.

NCP Chief Sharad Pawar takes U-turn on his resignation

<p>The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) President Sharad Pawar on Friday withdrew his resignation as party chief and said he is no longer stepping down.</p>

<p>"I'm taking my decision back," he announced at a press conference.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
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.”<br />
<br />
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.</p>

<p><strong>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></strong></p>

<p>he decision comes after&nbsp;the party unanimously rejected his resignation and asked him to continue in his post.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Sharad Pawar announces his resignation, NCP workers protests outside office</strong></p>

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<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p>"There's no alternative to Pawar Saheb...The NCP committee's decision is correct," said Raut.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
<br />
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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

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>"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;</p>

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<p>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;</p>

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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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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.<br />
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Jai Hind 🇮🇳</p>
— 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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<p>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;</p>

<p><br />
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;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We are trying to contact Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal. Last time they supported our joint prez candidate: Sharad Pawar</p>
— 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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<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><strong>Can the opposition manage a win?</strong></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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></p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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`.</p>

<p>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".</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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`.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


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

<p>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.<br />
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;<br />
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.<br />
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;<br />
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.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
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.<br />
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;<br />
"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.<br />
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;<br />
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.<br />
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;<br />
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.</p>


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

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>"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;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1201870054532374528?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>(<em>with inputs from ANI</em>)</p>

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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

<p>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.</p>

<p>The Shiv Sena chief will be sworn in on November 28 at Shivaji Park, the party announced after his visit to the Raj Bhavan.</p>

<p>Earlier on the day, Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as the CM of Maharashtra to the Governor BS Koshyari.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference before his resignation, Fadnavis said Ajit Pawar has also quit as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199340673352130560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>"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.</p>

<p>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'.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199339535961751554?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>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.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199269299157794822?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Congress new legislature wing leader Balasaheb Thorat endorsed the resolution moved by NCP leader Jayant Patil proposing Uddhav's name.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>On Wednesday in a special assembly session protem Speaker Kalidas Kolambkar is expected to swear in the new MLAs.</p>


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

<p>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>.</p>

<p>"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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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".</p>

<p>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;</p>


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

<p>Shiv Sena was not born to do communal politics. It was spoiled by BJP, said senior NCP leader on Tuesday.</p>

<p><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;</p>

<p>"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 <em>ANI</em>.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199302395735363585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>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;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">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></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1199300514371915776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.<br />
<br />
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.</p>

<p>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.<br />
<br />
<em>(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL) &nbsp;</em></p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>"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<br />
lodged to a avoid horse-trading.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><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></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1198977528477736960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>A majority of 145 MLAs are required to form government in Maharashtra.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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<br />
their power-sharing deal in order to form government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>


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

<p>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;</p>

<p>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."</p>

<p>Pawar said in Karad city to attend an event on the death anniversary of former Maharashtra Chief Minister Yashwantrao Chavan.</p>

<p>"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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;</em></p>


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

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