Hours after newly-sworn in Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray ordered to stop the work on Aarey metro car shed project, Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray on Friday asserted that the development will continue in the state but without harming the environment.

Speaking to ANI, Aditya said, "All the people in Mumbai are happy with this decision. Development work will continue but the harm that was being done to the environment will be stopped."

Earlier today, the Maharashtra Government passed an order to stop the work on the Aarey metro car shed project, over which trees were felled in October.

"I have ordered to stop the work of Aarey metro car shed project today. Metro work will not stop but till next decision, not a single leaf of Aarey will be cut," the Chief Minister said at a press conference earlier in the day.

A massive controversy had erupted in October over the felling of trees for the construction of a metro car shed in Mumbai's Aarey area, which is considered the lungs of the city.

The felling of trees in the area had drawn a wedge between former allies BJP and Shiv Sena, with then chief minister Devendra Fadnavis pushing for the project and the Thackeray-led party coming out in protest of the proposed car shed.

Over 2,185 trees were razed in the area in concurrence with the Bombay High Court's order which had upheld the permission granted to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) tree authority to cut down trees to make a metro-car shed.

In pursuance of the widespread protests which erupted after the felling of trees in Mumbai's Aarey colony, the apex court late in October ordered the Maharashtra government not to axe any more trees and maintain the status quo till further orders.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Hours after newly-sworn in Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray ordered to stop the work on Aarey metro car shed project, Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray on Friday asserted that the development will continue in the state but without harming the environment.

Hours after newly-sworn in Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray ordered to stop the work on Aarey metro car shed project, Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray on Friday asserted that the development will continue in the state but without harming the environment. Speaking to ANI, Aditya said, "All the people in Mumbai are happy with this decision. Development work will continue but the harm that was being done to the environment will be stopped." Earlier today, the Maharashtra Government passed an order to stop the work on the Aarey metro car shed project, over which trees were felled in October. "I have ordered to stop the work of Aarey metro car shed project today. Metro work will not stop but till next decision, not a single leaf of Aarey will be cut," the Chief Minister said at a press conference earlier in the day. A massive controversy had erupted in October over the felling of trees for the construction of a metro car shed in Mumbai's Aarey area, which is considered the lungs of the city. The felling of trees in the area had drawn a wedge between former allies BJP and Shiv Sena, with then chief minister Devendra Fadnavis pushing for the project and the Thackeray-led party coming out in protest of the proposed car shed. Over 2,185 trees were razed in the area in concurrence with the Bombay High Court's order which had upheld the permission granted to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) tree authority to cut down trees to make a metro-car shed. In pursuance of the widespread protests which erupted after the felling of trees in Mumbai's Aarey colony, the apex court late in October ordered the Maharashtra government not to axe any more trees and maintain the status quo till further orders.

Development will continue without harming environment; Aaditya Thackeray on Aarey project

A day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-sworn-in-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-chief-minister-265104">Uddhav Thackeray </a>was sworn in as chief minister of Maharashtra, new political alliances are beginning to shape up in neighbouring state Goa too.&nbsp;

On Friday, Goa Forward Party president Vijay Sardesai urged the Opposition in Goa to come together as they did in Maharashtra. Sardesai's statements came after Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut earlier claimed that Sardesai along with three other MLAs has agreed to form an alliance with Shiv Sena.

"A new political front is taking shape in Goa, as it was formed in Maharashtra. Soon, you will see some magic in Goa," Raut said.&nbsp;

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Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Goa Forward Party president &amp; ex-Dy CM of Goa, Vijai Sardesai along with 3 MLAs, is forming alliance with Shiv Sena. A new political front is taking shape in Goa, just like it happened in Maharashtra. Jaldi hi Goa mein bhi aapko ek chamatkar dikhai dega. <a href="https://t.co/IBQKsmKmbU">pic.twitter.com/IBQKsmKmbU</a>
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After Raut's comments, Sardesai said: "What happened in Maharashtra, should be done in Goa too. The Opposition should come together. We met Sanjay Raut. The 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' which was formed in Maharashtra, should extend to Goa too."&nbsp;

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Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Goa Forward Party president &amp; ex-Dy CM of Goa, Vijai Sardesai along with 3 MLAs, is forming alliance with Shiv Sena. A new political front is taking shape in Goa, just like it happened in Maharashtra. Jaldi hi Goa mein bhi aapko ek chamatkar dikhai dega. <a href="https://t.co/IBQKsmKmbU">pic.twitter.com/IBQKsmKmbU</a>
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Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVP) is the name given to the alliance between NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Raut also said that the party intends to form a non-BJP political front in the country. "It will happen across the country. After Maharashtra, it is Goa, then we will go to other states. We want to make a non-BJP political front in this country," Raut added.

It should be noted that Congress won the maximum number of seats in Goa in the Assembly elections in February 2017. But BJP came to power as it was supported by three MLAs each of Goa Forward Party, Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) and an independent MLA.&nbsp;

Congress had originally claimed 17 seats, while BJP ended up with 13 seats in the Assembly elections. However, 12 Congress MLAs later joined BJP, including 10 that joined in July this year led by Leader of Opposition Chandrakant Kavlekar.&nbsp;

After 12 Congress detractors joined BJP, Goa Forward Party decided to take back its support from the government as three party leaders were stripped from the cabinet including Sardesai from the post of deputy CM.

Earlier on Thursday, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav took oath as Maharashtra CM as the party stitched an alliance with foe-turned-friends NCP and Congress. Uddhav Thackeray's oath came after BJP's Devendra Fadnavis resigned as CM three days after swearing as his party failed to get majority 
support in order to form government in the state.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

A day after Uddhav Thackeray was sworn in as chief minister of Maharashtra, new political alliances are beginning to shape up in neighbouring state Goa too. On Friday, Goa Forward Party president Vijay Sardesai urged the Opposition in Goa to come together as they did in Maharashtra.

A day after Uddhav Thackeray was sworn in as chief minister of Maharashtra, new political alliances are beginning to shape up in neighbouring state Goa too. On Friday, Goa Forward Party president Vijay Sardesai urged the Opposition in Goa to come together as they did in Maharashtra. Sardesai's statements came after Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut earlier claimed that Sardesai along with three other MLAs has agreed to form an alliance with Shiv Sena. "A new political front is taking shape in Goa, as it was formed in Maharashtra. Soon, you will see some magic in Goa," Raut said. Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Goa Forward Party president & ex-Dy CM of Goa, Vijai Sardesai along with 3 MLAs, is forming alliance with Shiv Sena. A new political front is taking shape in Goa, just like it happened in Maharashtra. Jaldi hi Goa mein bhi aapko ek chamatkar dikhai dega. pic.twitter.com/IBQKsmKmbU — ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2019 × After Raut's comments, Sardesai said: "What happened in Maharashtra, should be done in Goa too. The Opposition should come together. We met Sanjay Raut. The 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' which was formed in Maharashtra, should extend to Goa too." Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Goa Forward Party president & ex-Dy CM of Goa, Vijai Sardesai along with 3 MLAs, is forming alliance with Shiv Sena. A new political front is taking shape in Goa, just like it happened in Maharashtra. Jaldi hi Goa mein bhi aapko ek chamatkar dikhai dega. pic.twitter.com/IBQKsmKmbU — ANI (@ANI) November 29, 2019 × Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVP) is the name given to the alliance between NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena in Maharashtra. Raut also said that the party intends to form a non-BJP political front in the country. "It will happen across the country. After Maharashtra, it is Goa, then we will go to other states. We want to make a non-BJP political front in this country," Raut added. It should be noted that Congress won the maximum number of seats in Goa in the Assembly elections in February 2017. But BJP came to power as it was supported by three MLAs each of Goa Forward Party, Maharashtrawadi Gomantak Party (MGP) and an independent MLA. Congress had originally claimed 17 seats, while BJP ended up with 13 seats in the Assembly elections. However, 12 Congress MLAs later joined BJP, including 10 that joined in July this year led by Leader of Opposition Chandrakant Kavlekar. After 12 Congress detractors joined BJP, Goa Forward Party decided to take back its support from the government as three party leaders were stripped from the cabinet including Sardesai from the post of deputy CM. Earlier on Thursday, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav took oath as Maharashtra CM as the party stitched an alliance with foe-turned-friends NCP and Congress. Uddhav Thackeray's oath came after BJP's Devendra Fadnavis resigned as CM three days after swearing as his party failed to get majority support in order to form government in the state. (with inputs from agencies)

'Maha Vikas Aghadi' in Goa? BJP ally asks Opposition to come together

With Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray taking oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have sharpened their attacks on their past ally in the NDA.

With several leaders including cabinet ministers and spokespersons coming out openly against the former ally, it is now likely that the attacks on the Maharashtra alliance will intensify in the coming days. The BJP is seemingly upset with the fact that it lost out on forming a government in the state despite being the largest political party with 105 MLAs in the 288 member state Assembly.

Speaking to ANI, cabinet minister and senior BJP leader Giriraj Singh targeted the Shiv Sena for its alleged attempts at getting a secular certification from the Congress, while at the same time deserting the NDA alliance."There are two people who give a certificate of secularism in this country. One is Congress and second is one who can abuse Hindus. Those who want the certificate should do the same," Singh said while alleging that Shiv Sena was desperate to seek validation from the Congress in its lust for power.

The minister also claimed that he had not compared the party with the Mughals in his tweets. "All I have said is that in lust for power, princely states and kings joined hands with Mughals. Mughal expanded in India through some princely states. Likewise, the Maharashtra government was formed with Congress," he clarified.

Further targeting the Shiv Sena, Singh said, "How can he (Uddhav Thackeray) get upset when asked about secularism. It is running on all TV channels. Definition of secular came here in 1976 but in Sanatan dharma, it has been there for ages. Secularism is in our DNA.''

The party is seemingly peeved at the attempt by the new Maharashtra alliance that had led to the removal of Devendra Fadnavis government, within days of BJP leaders taking oath as Maharashtra CM for a second time.

Another BJP leader and spokesperson of the party, GVL Narasimha Rao also tweeted taking a dig at the alliance of the erstwhile Hindu nationalist party with the Congress."Congratulations to 'Godse Bhakt'&nbsp;Uddhav Thackeray on taking over as CM of Maharashtra. You and your MLAs have pledged loyalty to Sultanete. Complete this surrender by renaming Saamna 'Sonia Nama'. They won't tolerate your nonsensical editorials dished out in your third rate paper," he tweeted soon after the oath taking ceremony," Rao wrote.

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With Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray taking oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have sharpened their attacks on their past ally in the NDA.

With Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray taking oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, leaders of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have sharpened their attacks on their past ally in the NDA. With several leaders including cabinet ministers and spokespersons coming out openly against the former ally, it is now likely that the attacks on the Maharashtra alliance will intensify in the coming days. The BJP is seemingly upset with the fact that it lost out on forming a government in the state despite being the largest political party with 105 MLAs in the 288 member state Assembly. Speaking to ANI, cabinet minister and senior BJP leader Giriraj Singh targeted the Shiv Sena for its alleged attempts at getting a secular certification from the Congress, while at the same time deserting the NDA alliance."There are two people who give a certificate of secularism in this country. One is Congress and second is one who can abuse Hindus. Those who want the certificate should do the same," Singh said while alleging that Shiv Sena was desperate to seek validation from the Congress in its lust for power. The minister also claimed that he had not compared the party with the Mughals in his tweets. "All I have said is that in lust for power, princely states and kings joined hands with Mughals. Mughal expanded in India through some princely states. Likewise, the Maharashtra government was formed with Congress," he clarified. Further targeting the Shiv Sena, Singh said, "How can he (Uddhav Thackeray) get upset when asked about secularism. It is running on all TV channels. Definition of secular came here in 1976 but in Sanatan dharma, it has been there for ages. Secularism is in our DNA.'' The party is seemingly peeved at the attempt by the new Maharashtra alliance that had led to the removal of Devendra Fadnavis government, within days of BJP leaders taking oath as Maharashtra CM for a second time. Another BJP leader and spokesperson of the party, GVL Narasimha Rao also tweeted taking a dig at the alliance of the erstwhile Hindu nationalist party with the Congress."Congratulations to 'Godse Bhakt' Uddhav Thackeray on taking over as CM of Maharashtra. You and your MLAs have pledged loyalty to Sultanete. Complete this surrender by renaming Saamna 'Sonia Nama'. They won't tolerate your nonsensical editorials dished out in your third rate paper," he tweeted soon after the oath taking ceremony," Rao wrote.

BJP leaders slams Uddhav Thackeray over 'secularism', allying with Congress

Congress interim president <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhi-attacks-bjp-over-shameless-efforts-to-form-the-government-in-maharashtra-264991">Sonia Gandhi</a> is unlikely to participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Shiv Sena chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-invites-pm-modi-for-oath-taking-ceremony-264970">Uddhav Thackeray</a> in Mumbai on Thursday.

On being asked if she will participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Uddhav Thackeray today, Gandhi said: "Not decided."

Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray on Wednesday met Sonia Gandhi and former prime minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonai-gandhi-manmohan-singh-pay-tribute-to-indira-gandhi-on-birth-anniversary-263061">Manmohan Singh</a> and invited them for the swearing-in ceremony.

"We met Sonia Gandhi and Dr Manmohan Singh as their guidance and blessings are necessary. Now we are returning to Mumbai," Aaditya told media here.

Uddhav Thackeray, Sena chief and the leader of `Maha Vikas Aghadi` led by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-ncp-to-get-deputy-cm-portfolio-assembly-speaker-to-be-from-congress-264935">Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress</a> will take oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday at Shivaji Park at 6.40 pm.

Around 400 farmers from various districts of Maharashtra have been invited for Thackeray`s swearing-in ceremony.

On Tuesday, Thackeray was unanimously elected as the leader of the tri-party alliance.

The political development came after BJP leader Devendra <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-resigns-as-deputy-chief-minister-of-maharashtra-sources-264628">Fadnavis submitted his resignation</a> as Chief Minister to the Governor on Tuesday as "the BJP fell short of the required number of MLAs to win the scheduled floor test".

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi is unlikely to participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray in Mumbai on Thursday. On being asked if she will participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Uddhav Thackeray today, Gandhi said: "Not decided.

Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi is unlikely to participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray in Mumbai on Thursday. On being asked if she will participate in the swearing-in ceremony of Uddhav Thackeray today, Gandhi said: "Not decided." Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray on Wednesday met Sonia Gandhi and former prime minister Manmohan Singh and invited them for the swearing-in ceremony. "We met Sonia Gandhi and Dr Manmohan Singh as their guidance and blessings are necessary. Now we are returning to Mumbai," Aaditya told media here. Uddhav Thackeray, Sena chief and the leader of `Maha Vikas Aghadi` led by Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress will take oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra on Thursday at Shivaji Park at 6.40 pm. Around 400 farmers from various districts of Maharashtra have been invited for Thackeray`s swearing-in ceremony. On Tuesday, Thackeray was unanimously elected as the leader of the tri-party alliance. The political development came after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as Chief Minister to the Governor on Tuesday as "the BJP fell short of the required number of MLAs to win the scheduled floor test".

Sonia Gandhi unlikely to attend Uddhav Thackeray's swearing-in ceremony

Six leaders -- two each from Congress, Shiv Sena, and NCP -- took oath as ministers in Maharashtra`s alliance government on Thursday led by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray.

They were administered the oath of office and secrecy by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Shivaji Park.

Congress` Balasaheb Thorat and Nitin Raut, NCP`s Jayant Rajaram Patil, and Chhagan Chandrakant Bhujbal took oath as ministers. From Shiv Sena, Eknath Shinde and Subhash Desai were sworn in as ministers.

Uddhav is the first member of the Thackeray family to become the Chief Minister of Maharashtra and the third Shiv Sena leader to hold the top post after Manohar Joshi and Narayan Rane.

He is leading a government of the Maha Vikas Aghadi, an alliance of Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and Congress.

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, Kapil Sibbal, KTS Tulsi, MK Stalin, SK Shinde, Sanjay Raut, and Prithviraj Chavan, MNS leader and Uddhav`s cousin Raj Thackeray were among several leaders who attended the oath-taking ceremony.

On Tuesday, Thackeray had been unanimously elected as the leader of the tri-party alliance -- Maha Vikas Aghadi.

&nbsp;

Six leaders -- two each from Congress, Shiv Sena, and NCP -- took oath as ministers in Maharashtra`s alliance government on Thursday led by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray.

Six leaders -- two each from Congress, Shiv Sena, and NCP -- took oath as ministers in Maharashtra`s alliance government on Thursday led by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. They were administered the oath of office and secrecy by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari at Shivaji Park. Congress` Balasaheb Thorat and Nitin Raut, NCP`s Jayant Rajaram Patil, and Chhagan Chandrakant Bhujbal took oath as ministers. From Shiv Sena, Eknath Shinde and Subhash Desai were sworn in as ministers. Uddhav is the first member of the Thackeray family to become the Chief Minister of Maharashtra and the third Shiv Sena leader to hold the top post after Manohar Joshi and Narayan Rane. He is leading a government of the Maha Vikas Aghadi, an alliance of Shiv Sena, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), and Congress. Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath, Kapil Sibbal, KTS Tulsi, MK Stalin, SK Shinde, Sanjay Raut, and Prithviraj Chavan, MNS leader and Uddhav`s cousin Raj Thackeray were among several leaders who attended the oath-taking ceremony. On Tuesday, Thackeray had been unanimously elected as the leader of the tri-party alliance -- Maha Vikas Aghadi.

Maharashtra: Six others take oath as ministers of Uddhav-led 'Maha Vikas Aghadi' government

Shiv Sena president and leader of Sena-NCP-Congress alliance Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday took oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra.

This ceremony has put an end to a month-long political drama following the assembly elections in Maharashtra.

Congress-NCP-Sena alliance has been named 'Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Uddhav Thackeray takes oath as Chief Minister of Maharashtra. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mumbai?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mumbai</a> <a href="https://t.co/pKaAjqYvWM">pic.twitter.com/pKaAjqYvWM</a>
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The oath-taking ceremony was held at Shivaji Park ground, which is located in Mumbai's Dadar, a ten-minute walk from the Shiv Sena Bhavan. Shivaji Park has a long association with the Shiv Sena. The 28-acres ground was the venue of the first public rally of Bal Thackeray in 1966.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray also invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his oath-taking ceremony.

Shiv Sena party sources confirmed the news and said that Thackeray spoke to the Prime Minister over the phone and invited him.

Around 400 farmers from various districts of Maharashtra have been invited for Thackeray`s swearing-in ceremony, the ANI report added.&nbsp;

Both Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Sonia Gandhi did not attend the swearing-in ceremony. Other non-BJP regional satraps like MK Stalin and Mamta Banerjee are also absent from the swearing-in ceremony which stands in stark contrast to the way opposition leaders came to see Kumaraswamy's swearing ceremony in Bengaluru in 2017.

The three-party alliance has agreed on a common minimum programme and have agreed to insert the word secular in its preamble.

Shiv Sena president and leader of Sena-NCP-Congress alliance Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday took oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra. This ceremony has put an end to a month-long political drama following the assembly elections in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena president and leader of Sena-NCP-Congress alliance Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday took oath as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra. This ceremony has put an end to a month-long political drama following the assembly elections in Maharashtra. Congress-NCP-Sena alliance has been named 'Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi. #WATCH Uddhav Thackeray takes oath as Chief Minister of Maharashtra. #Mumbai pic.twitter.com/pKaAjqYvWM — ANI (@ANI) November 28, 2019 × The oath-taking ceremony was held at Shivaji Park ground, which is located in Mumbai's Dadar, a ten-minute walk from the Shiv Sena Bhavan. Shivaji Park has a long association with the Shiv Sena. The 28-acres ground was the venue of the first public rally of Bal Thackeray in 1966. Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray also invited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his oath-taking ceremony. Shiv Sena party sources confirmed the news and said that Thackeray spoke to the Prime Minister over the phone and invited him. Around 400 farmers from various districts of Maharashtra have been invited for Thackeray`s swearing-in ceremony, the ANI report added. Both Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Sonia Gandhi did not attend the swearing-in ceremony. Other non-BJP regional satraps like MK Stalin and Mamta Banerjee are also absent from the swearing-in ceremony which stands in stark contrast to the way opposition leaders came to see Kumaraswamy's swearing ceremony in Bengaluru in 2017. The three-party alliance has agreed on a common minimum programme and have agreed to insert the word secular in its preamble.

Uddhav Thackeray sworn in as the chief minister of Maharashtra

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray for taking <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/uddhav-thackeray-sworn-in-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-chief-minister-265104">oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister</a> and said that he is confident that Thackeray "will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra".

PM Modi took to microblogging site Twitter and posted, "Congratulations to Uddhav Thackeray Ji on taking oath as the CM of Maharashtra. I am confident he will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra".

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Congratulations to Uddhav Thackeray Ji on taking oath as the CM of Maharashtra. I am confident he will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra. <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficeofUT?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@OfficeofUT</a>
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Thackeray took oath as Maharashtra CM, putting an end to the month-long political impasse in the state. Thackeray is the leader of the NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena alliance which has been named 'Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi.

The oath-taking ceremony was held at Shivaji Park ground, which is located in Mumbai's Dadar, a ten-minute walk from the Shiv Sena Bhavan. Shivaji Park has a long association with the Shiv Sena. The 28-acres ground was the venue of the first public rally of Bal Thackeray in 1966.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray for taking oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister and said that he is confident that Thackeray "will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray for taking oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister and said that he is confident that Thackeray "will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra". PM Modi took to microblogging site Twitter and posted, "Congratulations to Uddhav Thackeray Ji on taking oath as the CM of Maharashtra. I am confident he will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra". Congratulations to Uddhav Thackeray Ji on taking oath as the CM of Maharashtra. I am confident he will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra. @OfficeofUT — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 28, 2019 × Thackeray took oath as Maharashtra CM, putting an end to the month-long political impasse in the state. Thackeray is the leader of the NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena alliance which has been named 'Maharashtra Vikas Aghadi. The oath-taking ceremony was held at Shivaji Park ground, which is located in Mumbai's Dadar, a ten-minute walk from the Shiv Sena Bhavan. Shivaji Park has a long association with the Shiv Sena. The 28-acres ground was the venue of the first public rally of Bal Thackeray in 1966.

He will work diligently for Maharashtra's bright future: PM Modi congratulates Uddhav Thackeray

NCP leader Ajit Pawar will not be sworn-in as a member of Uddhav Thackeray government today evening.

Speaking to reporters after attending a meeting, Pawar said that the NCP has yet to make a decision in this regard.

"I am not taking oath today. Today six leaders will be taking oath two from each party," Ajit said.

He further said, "The decision on deputy chief minister is yet to be taken by the party."

The NCP leader was speaking to media after a meeting of Jayant Patil, Prafull Patel, Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar here. Ajit resigned as the deputy chief minister in the Devendra Fadnavis government on Monday, three days after he took the oath of the office.

According to sources, NCP, Shiv Sena and Congress are discussing to increase the number of leaders who will be taking oath at Shivaji Park today evening.

Uddhav Thackeray will be taking oath as the chief minister more than a month after the declaration of Assembly election results on October 24.

Political uncertainty continued for weeks after Shiv Sena, the then ally of the BJP, demanded rotation of the chief minister`s post and equal power-sharing, something rejected by the later.

NCP leader Ajit Pawar will not be sworn-in as a member of Uddhav Thackeray government today evening. Speaking to reporters after attending a meeting, Pawar said that the NCP has yet to make a decision in this regard.

NCP leader Ajit Pawar will not be sworn-in as a member of Uddhav Thackeray government today evening. Speaking to reporters after attending a meeting, Pawar said that the NCP has yet to make a decision in this regard. "I am not taking oath today. Today six leaders will be taking oath two from each party," Ajit said. He further said, "The decision on deputy chief minister is yet to be taken by the party." The NCP leader was speaking to media after a meeting of Jayant Patil, Prafull Patel, Ajit Pawar and Sharad Pawar here. Ajit resigned as the deputy chief minister in the Devendra Fadnavis government on Monday, three days after he took the oath of the office. According to sources, NCP, Shiv Sena and Congress are discussing to increase the number of leaders who will be taking oath at Shivaji Park today evening. Uddhav Thackeray will be taking oath as the chief minister more than a month after the declaration of Assembly election results on October 24. Political uncertainty continued for weeks after Shiv Sena, the then ally of the BJP, demanded rotation of the chief minister`s post and equal power-sharing, something rejected by the later.

Not taking oath today, says Ajit Pawar; 6 leaders form Sena, Congress, NCP to take oath

Apart from the Chief Minister portfolio, Shiv Sena will have 15 ministers in Maharashtra cabinet while Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will have Deputy Chief Minister and 13 other ministers, sources said on Wednesday.

Congress will have Assembly Speaker and 13 ministers. "Apart from Chief Minister, Shiv Sena to have 15 ministers, NCP to have Deputy Chief Minister and 13 other ministers. Congress to have Assembly Speaker and 13 ministers," sources told ANI.

This comes amid the ongoing talks of Maha Vikas Aghadi of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena to give shape to the new government to be formed under Uddhav Thackeray.

Earlier in the day, Maharashtra Congress chief Balasaheb Thorat said the sharing of portfolios among the Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress in the next state government will be finalised in a couple of days.

After the BJP-led government collapsed on Tuesday, Shiv Sena, NCP, and Congress along with some small allies and Independents have chosen Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, who is scheduled take oath on Thursday at Shivaji Park at 6.40 pm.

The oath-taking ceremony of the newly-elected MLAs was conducted in Maharashtra Assembly in a special session on Wednesday after days of political uncertainty in the state.

They were administered oath by newly appointed pro-tem speaker Kalidas Kolambkar here at the Raj Bhavan.

Today's session comes a day after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis resigned as Maharashtra Chief Minister merely three days after he took oath in a controversial turn of events.

Yesterday evening, the Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress combine met Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and staked claim to form the government, following which the Governor announced that Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will take oath as the Chief Minister of the state.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Apart from the Chief Minister portfolio, Shiv Sena will have 15 ministers in Maharashtra cabinet while Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will have Deputy Chief Minister and 13 other ministers, sources said on Wednesday.

Apart from the Chief Minister portfolio, Shiv Sena will have 15 ministers in Maharashtra cabinet while Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) will have Deputy Chief Minister and 13 other ministers, sources said on Wednesday. Congress will have Assembly Speaker and 13 ministers. "Apart from Chief Minister, Shiv Sena to have 15 ministers, NCP to have Deputy Chief Minister and 13 other ministers. Congress to have Assembly Speaker and 13 ministers," sources told ANI. This comes amid the ongoing talks of Maha Vikas Aghadi of NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena to give shape to the new government to be formed under Uddhav Thackeray. Earlier in the day, Maharashtra Congress chief Balasaheb Thorat said the sharing of portfolios among the Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress in the next state government will be finalised in a couple of days. After the BJP-led government collapsed on Tuesday, Shiv Sena, NCP, and Congress along with some small allies and Independents have chosen Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, who is scheduled take oath on Thursday at Shivaji Park at 6.40 pm. The oath-taking ceremony of the newly-elected MLAs was conducted in Maharashtra Assembly in a special session on Wednesday after days of political uncertainty in the state. They were administered oath by newly appointed pro-tem speaker Kalidas Kolambkar here at the Raj Bhavan. Today's session comes a day after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis resigned as Maharashtra Chief Minister merely three days after he took oath in a controversial turn of events. Yesterday evening, the Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress combine met Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari and staked claim to form the government, following which the Governor announced that Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will take oath as the Chief Minister of the state.

Maharashtra: NCP to get Deputy CM portfolio, Assembly Speaker to be from Congress

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as the CM of Maharashtra to the Maharashtra governor on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference before his resignation, Fadnavis said Ajit Pawar has also quit as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra.

He also said that the party formed the government after it received assurance from NCP chief Sharad Pawar that NCP&nbsp;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.

Earlier on the day, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-orders-floor-test-in-maharashtra-assembly-to-be-held-on-wednesday-264543">Supreme Court </a>ordered conducting floor test which will test the majority of the BJP government led by Devendra Fadnavis. The SC gave its verdict while hearing a joint plea filed by Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress against the formation of government in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

On Monday, Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress, in a show of strength claimed that they have the support of 162 MLAs in Hotel Grand Hyatt in Mumbai. The three parties also submitted a letter to Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, mentioning that they have the backing of&nbsp;162 MLAs and should be given the permission to form government in the state.&nbsp;

In a massive turn of events, Devendra Fadnavis took oath as CM of Maharashtra in the wee hours on Saturday. NCP's Ajit was also sworn in as deputy CM.&nbsp;

The swearing-in ceremony came at a time when NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena were finalising a deal to form government in the state. After the ceremony, NCP chief clarified that the party is not with BJP and will form an alliance with Congress and NCP.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as the CM of Maharashtra to the Maharashtra governor on Tuesday. Addressing a press conference before his resignation, Fadnavis said Ajit Pawar has also quit as the deputy chief minister of Maharashtra.

Devendra Fadnavis submitted his resignation as the CM of Maharashtra to the Maharashtra governor on Tuesday. 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. Earlier on the day, the Supreme Court ordered conducting floor test which will test the majority of the BJP government led by Devendra Fadnavis. The SC gave its verdict while hearing a joint plea filed by Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress against the formation of government in Maharashtra. On Monday, Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress, in a show of strength claimed that they have the support of 162 MLAs in Hotel Grand Hyatt in Mumbai. The three parties also submitted a letter to Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari, mentioning that they have the backing of 162 MLAs and should be given the permission to form government in the state. In a massive turn of events, Devendra Fadnavis took oath as CM of Maharashtra in the wee hours on Saturday. NCP's Ajit 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)

Maharashtra: Devendra Fadnavis resigns as chief minister after Ajit Pawar leaves alliance

Shortly after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test of the Fadnavis government in Maharashtra, a joint meeting of MLAs from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Shiv Sena and Congress were called on Tuesday to elect their "leader".

Taking to Twitter, NCP leader Nawab Malik tweeted, "Today 5 pm joint meeting of NCP, SS and INC MLAs to elect a leader." 
The meeting will place at the Trident Hotel, Bandra Kurla Complex.

A floor test will be held in the Maharashtra Assembly on November 27, the Supreme Court ordered today, days after BJP's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as the state's chief minister, nixing Shiv Sena-Congress-NCP's bid to form the government.

A floor test is a constitutional mechanism under which a chief minister can be asked to prove majority in the state Assembly.

A three-judge bench, headed by Justice Ramana, passed the order on a joint petition filed by the three parties challenging Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari's decision to administer the oath to Fadnavis as Chief Minister and NCP's Ajit Pawar as his deputy during the early hours of Saturday.

The BJP had won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly in last month's assembly polls followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. Although BJP and Shiv Sena got the mandate to form the government, the two parties parted ways over power-sharing.

On the occasion of Constitution Day today, Opposition parties, including Congress staged a protest against government formation by BJP in Maharashtra in front of Ambedkar Statue inside Parliament complex while a joint sitting of both the houses was underway in the Central Hall. (ANI)

Shortly after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test of the Fadnavis government in Maharashtra, a joint meeting of MLAs from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Shiv Sena and Congress were called on Tuesday to elect their "leader".

Shortly after the Supreme Court ordered a floor test of the Fadnavis government in Maharashtra, a joint meeting of MLAs from the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Shiv Sena and Congress were called on Tuesday to elect their "leader". Taking to Twitter, NCP leader Nawab Malik tweeted, "Today 5 pm joint meeting of NCP, SS and INC MLAs to elect a leader." The meeting will place at the Trident Hotel, Bandra Kurla Complex. A floor test will be held in the Maharashtra Assembly on November 27, the Supreme Court ordered today, days after BJP's Devendra Fadnavis took oath as the state's chief minister, nixing Shiv Sena-Congress-NCP's bid to form the government. A floor test is a constitutional mechanism under which a chief minister can be asked to prove majority in the state Assembly. A three-judge bench, headed by Justice Ramana, passed the order on a joint petition filed by the three parties challenging Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari's decision to administer the oath to Fadnavis as Chief Minister and NCP's Ajit Pawar as his deputy during the early hours of Saturday. The BJP had won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly in last month's assembly polls followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. Although BJP and Shiv Sena got the mandate to form the government, the two parties parted ways over power-sharing. On the occasion of Constitution Day today, Opposition parties, including Congress staged a protest against government formation by BJP in Maharashtra in front of Ambedkar Statue inside Parliament complex while a joint sitting of both the houses was underway in the Central Hall. (ANI)

Maharashtra: Meeting of MLAs from NCP, Shiv Sena, Congress called today to elect 'leader'

Youth Congress workers on Monday held a protest here against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra.

The party workers raised slogans against BJP leaders and the government and also burnt effigies. At a time when deliberations among <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-accuses-bjp-of-murdering-democracy-in-maharashtra-264335">Congress</a>, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in Maharashtra had seemingly reached a final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Fadnavis took oath for the second time as Chief Minister, while Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly in last month`s assembly polls followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

Youth Congress workers on Monday held a protest here against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra. The party workers raised slogans against BJP leaders and the government and also burnt effigies.

Youth Congress workers on Monday held a protest here against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra. The party workers raised slogans against BJP leaders and the government and also burnt effigies. At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in Maharashtra had seemingly reached a final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Fadnavis took oath for the second time as Chief Minister, while Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly in last month`s assembly polls followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Youth Congress leaders protest against BJP's govt formation in Maharashtra

Senior leader Eknath Shinde on Monday said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ncp-congress-shiv-sena-petition-supreme-court-to-pass-order-tomorrow-1030-am-264329">Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress </a>have the required numbers and added that they have given the letter, where 162 MLAs have pledged support to their alliance to Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

Earlier today, Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena leaders submitted the letter to the officials at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai.

"We`ve given the letter of support of 162 MLAs to the Governor. In a democracy, only the majority number holds importance. We want that the minority government formed on November 23, should resign as they can`t prove the majority. Those with the majority should be given the opportunity," said Shinde.

"Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress have numbers and we want to form the government but our claim was rejected and it`s like cheating the democracy," he added.

Shinde further demanded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devendra-fadnavis-takes-oath-as-maharashtra-chief-minister-ajit-pawar-as-deputy-cm-263978">Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis</a>`s resignation citing lack of numbers.

Watch also:&nbsp;Big Twist -&nbsp;Devendra Fadnavis sworn in as Maharashtra CM

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"We have signatures of 162 MLAs and we have proven that we can form the government. The current government which is formed overnight should not be given acceptance as they don`t have the numbers. We demand the resignation of Chief Minister Fadnavis as they don`t have numbers," said Shinde.

Echoing similar sentiments, NCP leader Jayant Patil earlier today had asserted that a government has been formed in the state but the concerned political parties do not have adequate numbers.

"We have a doubt that if the BJP Government is unsuccessful in proving the numbers, they will indulge in bad practices and therefore we have taken signatures of MLAs beforehand. The government that does not have numbers and have no third person other than the two faces which are being shown regularly, should not create a false public perception that they have numbers and can form the government," said Patil.

Patil told reporters here that he will once again try to convince Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar for one last time.

"I will go to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ajit-pawar-took-false-documents-to-raj-bhawan-yesterday-sanjay-raut-264162">Ajit Pawar</a> once again to convince him and this could be for the last time. If we are successful in doing so then it`s fine otherwise the party will decide its next step," said Patil.

At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in the state had seemingly reached a final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Fadnavis took oath for the second time as the Maharashtra Chief Minister, while Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly in last month`s assembly polls followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Although BJP and Shiv Sena got the mandate to form the government, the two parties parted ways over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-political-crisis-all-eyes-on-supreme-court-today-264150">power-sharing</a>.

Senior leader Eknath Shinde on Monday said that Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress have the required numbers and added that they have given the letter, where 162 MLAs have pledged support to their alliance to Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

Senior leader Eknath Shinde on Monday said that Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress have the required numbers and added that they have given the letter, where 162 MLAs have pledged support to their alliance to Maharashtra Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. Earlier today, Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena leaders submitted the letter to the officials at Raj Bhavan in Mumbai. "We`ve given the letter of support of 162 MLAs to the Governor. In a democracy, only the majority number holds importance. We want that the minority government formed on November 23, should resign as they can`t prove the majority. Those with the majority should be given the opportunity," said Shinde. "Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress have numbers and we want to form the government but our claim was rejected and it`s like cheating the democracy," he added. Shinde further demanded Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis`s resignation citing lack of numbers. Watch also: Big Twist - Devendra Fadnavis sworn in as Maharashtra CM × "We have signatures of 162 MLAs and we have proven that we can form the government. The current government which is formed overnight should not be given acceptance as they don`t have the numbers. We demand the resignation of Chief Minister Fadnavis as they don`t have numbers," said Shinde. Echoing similar sentiments, NCP leader Jayant Patil earlier today had asserted that a government has been formed in the state but the concerned political parties do not have adequate numbers. "We have a doubt that if the BJP Government is unsuccessful in proving the numbers, they will indulge in bad practices and therefore we have taken signatures of MLAs beforehand. The government that does not have numbers and have no third person other than the two faces which are being shown regularly, should not create a false public perception that they have numbers and can form the government," said Patil. Patil told reporters here that he will once again try to convince Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar for one last time. "I will go to Ajit Pawar once again to convince him and this could be for the last time. If we are successful in doing so then it`s fine otherwise the party will decide its next step," said Patil. At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in the state had seemingly reached a final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Fadnavis took oath for the second time as the Maharashtra Chief Minister, while Ajit Pawar was sworn-in as the Deputy Chief Minister of the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly in last month`s assembly polls followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. Although BJP and Shiv Sena got the mandate to form the government, the two parties parted ways over power-sharing.

We've given letter citing support of 162 MLAs to Maharashtra Governor: Eknath Shinde

Shiv Sena MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday said that the post-poll alliance between NCP and Shiv Sarties under the guidance of Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray.

"Earlier today. All together for Maharashtra's #MahaStrength," Aaditya said retweeting a photo shared by Supriya Sule after today's meeting of NCP MLAs presided by Sharad Pawar which saw Uddhav Thackeray also attend.

The photo showed Aaditya standing with Sena's Sanjay Raut and NCP's Supriya Sule and Rohit Pawar. He also retweeted another tweet by the official handle of the NCP with photos from the meeting, with both party chiefs.

The NCP meeting was called to explain the current scenario in Maharashtra to the party MLAs.

Later on, Uddhav Thackeray addressed a meeting of his party's MLAs to discuss the existing situation in Maharashtra.

Meanwhile Sharad Pawar, through a tweet today expressed confidence that his party will form the government with the Congress and Shiv Sena in Maharashtra and it had no plans to ally with the BJP.

"There is no question of forming an alliance with the BJP. NCP has unanimously decided to ally with Shiv Sena and Congress to form the government. Ajit Pawar's statement is false and misleading in order to create confusion and false perception among the people," Sharad Pawar's tweet read.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday said that the post-poll alliance between NCP and Shiv Sarties under the guidance of Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray. "Earlier today.

Shiv Sena MLA Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday said that the post-poll alliance between NCP and Shiv Sarties under the guidance of Sharad Pawar and Uddhav Thackeray. "Earlier today. All together for Maharashtra's #MahaStrength," Aaditya said retweeting a photo shared by Supriya Sule after today's meeting of NCP MLAs presided by Sharad Pawar which saw Uddhav Thackeray also attend. The photo showed Aaditya standing with Sena's Sanjay Raut and NCP's Supriya Sule and Rohit Pawar. He also retweeted another tweet by the official handle of the NCP with photos from the meeting, with both party chiefs. The NCP meeting was called to explain the current scenario in Maharashtra to the party MLAs. Later on, Uddhav Thackeray addressed a meeting of his party's MLAs to discuss the existing situation in Maharashtra. Meanwhile Sharad Pawar, through a tweet today expressed confidence that his party will form the government with the Congress and Shiv Sena in Maharashtra and it had no plans to ally with the BJP. "There is no question of forming an alliance with the BJP. NCP has unanimously decided to ally with Shiv Sena and Congress to form the government. Ajit Pawar's statement is false and misleading in order to create confusion and false perception among the people," Sharad Pawar's tweet read.

Congress-NCP together for Maharashtra's 'Maha strength': Aaditya Thackeray

The Supreme Court on Sunday while hearing the NCP-Sena-Congress joint plea against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra remarked that the "sky is the limit for Supreme Court" and "anybody can ask for anything in Court".

The remark was made by Justice NV Ramana when senior Counsel Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the BJP, questioned the plea filed by Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena.

"In this court, the sky is the limit, anybody can ask for anything. Any person can ask to make him the Prime Minister," observed Justice NV Ramana.

The Bench consisting Justice Ramana, Ashok Bhushan and Sanjiv Khanna, asked the Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to produce relevant documents including Maharashtra Governor's letter inviting BJP to form the government and letter of support of MLAs by 10 am tomorrow.

Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi while arguing on behalf of BJP in Supreme Court appealed the court not to pass an order to fix the date for the floor test in Maharashtra Assembly and asserted that Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari has committed no "illegality".

"There is no need for the court to pass order today. There was no illegality in the Governor's decision. The court should not pass an order to fix the date of the floor test. The three parties here have no fundamental rights," said Rohatgi."

There are some things that are with the President which are not even open to judicial intervention," he argued.

At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in the state had seemingly reached the final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Devendra Fadnavis took oath for the second consecutive term as the state Chief Minister, with NCP's Ajit Pawar as his Deputy Chief Minister.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) late on Saturday moved 44 MLAs to the Renaissance Hotel here on Saturday. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

The Supreme Court on Sunday while hearing the NCP-Sena-Congress joint plea against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra remarked that the "sky is the limit for Supreme Court" and "anybody can ask for anything in Court".

The Supreme Court on Sunday while hearing the NCP-Sena-Congress joint plea against BJP-led government formation in Maharashtra remarked that the "sky is the limit for Supreme Court" and "anybody can ask for anything in Court". The remark was made by Justice NV Ramana when senior Counsel Mukul Rohatgi, appearing for the BJP, questioned the plea filed by Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena. "In this court, the sky is the limit, anybody can ask for anything. Any person can ask to make him the Prime Minister," observed Justice NV Ramana. The Bench consisting Justice Ramana, Ashok Bhushan and Sanjiv Khanna, asked the Solicitor General Tushar Mehta to produce relevant documents including Maharashtra Governor's letter inviting BJP to form the government and letter of support of MLAs by 10 am tomorrow. Senior counsel Mukul Rohatgi while arguing on behalf of BJP in Supreme Court appealed the court not to pass an order to fix the date for the floor test in Maharashtra Assembly and asserted that Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari has committed no "illegality". "There is no need for the court to pass order today. There was no illegality in the Governor's decision. The court should not pass an order to fix the date of the floor test. The three parties here have no fundamental rights," said Rohatgi." There are some things that are with the President which are not even open to judicial intervention," he argued. At a time when deliberations among Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena on the formation of a non-BJP government in the state had seemingly reached the final stage, the BJP formed the government in a surprise development on Saturday morning when Devendra Fadnavis took oath for the second consecutive term as the state Chief Minister, with NCP's Ajit Pawar as his Deputy Chief Minister. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. The Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) late on Saturday moved 44 MLAs to the Renaissance Hotel here on Saturday. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Anybody can ask for anything: SC while hearing plea on Maharashtra government formation

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that there was no reason for the Congress, Shiv Sena or Sharad Pawar to have doubts on the role of Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari in government formation in Maharashtra.

"The Governor can ask anyone to form the government when he is fully satisfied that the party has the majority needed. It is up to the Governor's discretion, nobody should have an objection to that," Singh told ANI.

Responding to the allegations that the BJP would fail in the majority test in the state Assembly, being raised by the Congress and Shiv Sena, Singh said, "Let us see what happens in floor test but I believe that they must have had required numbers, that is why they were invited. The majority will have to be proven in the floor test, but I have faith that the Governor must have felt that they (BJP) have a majority and only then did he allowed us to stake a claim."

Earlier today, addressing a workers felicitation meeting, Singh had targeted Pakistan and blamed it of running a "terror industry".

"The entire world wants to walk alongside India, but our country's neighbour Pakistan is running a terror business. When terrorism becomes an industry at any place then all other businesses close on their own," Singh said in his address at the programme.

At the meeting, he also said that the party workers were the reason behind BJP's phenomenal success in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that there was no reason for the Congress, Shiv Sena or Sharad Pawar to have doubts on the role of Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari in government formation in Maharashtra.

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Saturday said that there was no reason for the Congress, Shiv Sena or Sharad Pawar to have doubts on the role of Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari in government formation in Maharashtra. "The Governor can ask anyone to form the government when he is fully satisfied that the party has the majority needed. It is up to the Governor's discretion, nobody should have an objection to that," Singh told ANI. Responding to the allegations that the BJP would fail in the majority test in the state Assembly, being raised by the Congress and Shiv Sena, Singh said, "Let us see what happens in floor test but I believe that they must have had required numbers, that is why they were invited. The majority will have to be proven in the floor test, but I have faith that the Governor must have felt that they (BJP) have a majority and only then did he allowed us to stake a claim." Earlier today, addressing a workers felicitation meeting, Singh had targeted Pakistan and blamed it of running a "terror industry". "The entire world wants to walk alongside India, but our country's neighbour Pakistan is running a terror business. When terrorism becomes an industry at any place then all other businesses close on their own," Singh said in his address at the programme. At the meeting, he also said that the party workers were the reason behind BJP's phenomenal success in the Lok Sabha elections.

Nobody should object to Governor asking BJP to form government in Maharashtra: Rajnath Singh

Three Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislators alleged they were not aware of an oath-ceremony when "they were taken" to Maharashtra Raj Bhavan earlier on Saturday morning and they were with party chief Sharad Pawar.

They made the remarks at a joint press conference addressed by Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray. The press conference was held hours after Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar were sworn-in as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister respectively.

NCP MLA Rajendra Shingane said Ajit Pawar had called him to discuss something. "From there I was taken with other MLAs to Raj Bhavan," he said.

"Before we could understand the oath ceremony was complete, I rushed to Pawar sahab and told him I am with Sharad Pawar and NCP. I was taken there without any prior information," he said.

NCP MLAs, Sandip Kshirsagar and Sunil Bhusara, also echoed Shingane's allegations and affirmed their support to Sharad Pawar.

The NCP supremo said that the party will take action against his nephew for lending support to BJP for government formation in the state.

He also said that NCP will elect its new legislative party leader at 4 pm today.

"Ajit Pawar's decision is against the party line and is indiscipline. No NCP leader or worker is in favour of an NCP-BJP government. All the MLAs who are going must know that there is an anti-defection law and the possibility of them losing their assembly membership is high," Sharad Pawar said.

He said that NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena, which have been in talks will form the government and Fadnavis will not be able to prove his majority.

"I am sure that the Governor has given them time to prove majority but they won't be able to prove it. After that, our three parties will form the government as we had decided earlier," he added.

In a sudden turn of events, Fadnavis earlier this morning took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister while Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state.

Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari administered the oath of office to the two leaders.

The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena had seemingly reached a final stage.

The BJP, which emerged as the single-largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Three Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislators alleged they were not aware of an oath-ceremony when "they were taken" to Maharashtra Raj Bhavan earlier on Saturday morning and they were with party chief Sharad Pawar.

Three Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) legislators alleged they were not aware of an oath-ceremony when "they were taken" to Maharashtra Raj Bhavan earlier on Saturday morning and they were with party chief Sharad Pawar. They made the remarks at a joint press conference addressed by Sharad Pawar and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray. The press conference was held hours after Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar were sworn-in as Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister respectively. NCP MLA Rajendra Shingane said Ajit Pawar had called him to discuss something. "From there I was taken with other MLAs to Raj Bhavan," he said. "Before we could understand the oath ceremony was complete, I rushed to Pawar sahab and told him I am with Sharad Pawar and NCP. I was taken there without any prior information," he said. NCP MLAs, Sandip Kshirsagar and Sunil Bhusara, also echoed Shingane's allegations and affirmed their support to Sharad Pawar. The NCP supremo said that the party will take action against his nephew for lending support to BJP for government formation in the state. He also said that NCP will elect its new legislative party leader at 4 pm today. "Ajit Pawar's decision is against the party line and is indiscipline. No NCP leader or worker is in favour of an NCP-BJP government. All the MLAs who are going must know that there is an anti-defection law and the possibility of them losing their assembly membership is high," Sharad Pawar said. He said that NCP, Congress and Shiv Sena, which have been in talks will form the government and Fadnavis will not be able to prove his majority. "I am sure that the Governor has given them time to prove majority but they won't be able to prove it. After that, our three parties will form the government as we had decided earlier," he added. In a sudden turn of events, Fadnavis earlier this morning took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister while Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state. Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari administered the oath of office to the two leaders. The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena had seemingly reached a final stage. The BJP, which emerged as the single-largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Not aware of oath ceremony at Raj Bhavan, say three NCP MLAs

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday congratulated BJP's Devendra Fadnavis on taking oath as the Maharashtra Chief Minister and took a swipe at its former ally, saying Shiv Sena betrayed the mandate by going ahead to form a government with the support of Congress.

"I congratulate Devendra Fadnavis for becoming Maharashtra Chief Minister again. The mandate was given to BJP. Shiv Sena was a part of our alliance and also got votes because of us. But they betrayed the people's mandate. In the last 15 days, they were ready to forge an alliance with Congress, a party that spread malice against Savarkar, brought Emergency and looted the country," he told reporters.

Javadekar said that Shiv Sena has learnt a lesson after betraying the mandate and it has cost them dearly.

"Today is the victory of truth. The mandate of BJP has been respected," he added.

In a major development, Fadnavis earlier this morning took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister for the second consecutive term while NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state.

The two leaders were administered the oath by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena seemingly reached the final stage on Friday.

The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state.The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday congratulated BJP's Devendra Fadnavis on taking oath as the Maharashtra Chief Minister and took a swipe at its former ally, saying Shiv Sena betrayed the mandate by going ahead to form a government with the support of Congress.

Union Minister Prakash Javadekar on Saturday congratulated BJP's Devendra Fadnavis on taking oath as the Maharashtra Chief Minister and took a swipe at its former ally, saying Shiv Sena betrayed the mandate by going ahead to form a government with the support of Congress. "I congratulate Devendra Fadnavis for becoming Maharashtra Chief Minister again. The mandate was given to BJP. Shiv Sena was a part of our alliance and also got votes because of us. But they betrayed the people's mandate. In the last 15 days, they were ready to forge an alliance with Congress, a party that spread malice against Savarkar, brought Emergency and looted the country," he told reporters. Javadekar said that Shiv Sena has learnt a lesson after betraying the mandate and it has cost them dearly. "Today is the victory of truth. The mandate of BJP has been respected," he added. In a major development, Fadnavis earlier this morning took oath as Maharashtra Chief Minister for the second consecutive term while NCP's Ajit Pawar took oath as Deputy Chief Minister of the state. The two leaders were administered the oath by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The move came at a time when deliberations between Congress, NCP and Shiv Sena seemingly reached the final stage on Friday. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state.The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Shiv Sena betrayed people's mandate by forging alliance with Congress: Javadekar

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Issuing a stern warning to BJP, Shiv Sena party chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday said that Maharashtra will not stay asleep if BJP tries to break Shiv Sena.

Thackeray and Nationalist Congress Party Chief Sharad Pawar were addressing a joint press conference in Mumbai after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar.

Accusing BJP of manipulating EVMs during polls, Uddhav Thackeray said everyone knows what Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj did when betrayed and attacked from the back.

Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar said no NCP leader or worker is in favour of an NCP-BJP government and added that Ajit Pawar's decision was against the party line.&nbsp;

''Congress, Shiv Sena and NCP leaders came together to form the government. We had the numbers. We had our official numbers- 44, 56 and 54 MLAs with us who had supported the government. Several independent were also with us and we had numbers around 170,'' Pawar added.

Reminding his party MLAs of anti-defection law, Pawar said there was a possibility of MLAs losing their assembly membership.&nbsp;

Three MLAs who were present during the oath-taking ceremony said were unknowingly taken to the oath ceremony pledged their support to NCP.

Three MLAs who were among the 10-11 MLAs present during the oath-taking ceremony in the Raj Bhavan were present during the press conference which was addressed by Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena leaders.&nbsp;

Issuing a stern warning to BJP, Shiv Sena party chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday said that Maharashtra will not stay asleep if BJP tries to break Shiv Sena. Thackeray and Nationalist Congress Party Chief Sharad Pawar were addressing a joint press conference in Mumbai after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar.

Issuing a stern warning to BJP, Shiv Sena party chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday said that Maharashtra will not stay asleep if BJP tries to break Shiv Sena. Thackeray and Nationalist Congress Party Chief Sharad Pawar were addressing a joint press conference in Mumbai after BJP pulled off a coup of sorts by forming the government in Maharashtra with the support of NCP's Ajit Pawar. Accusing BJP of manipulating EVMs during polls, Uddhav Thackeray said everyone knows what Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj did when betrayed and attacked from the back. Meanwhile, Sharad Pawar said no NCP leader or worker is in favour of an NCP-BJP government and added that Ajit Pawar's decision was against the party line. ''Congress, Shiv Sena and NCP leaders came together to form the government. We had the numbers. We had our official numbers- 44, 56 and 54 MLAs with us who had supported the government. Several independent were also with us and we had numbers around 170,'' Pawar added. Reminding his party MLAs of anti-defection law, Pawar said there was a possibility of MLAs losing their assembly membership. Three MLAs who were present during the oath-taking ceremony said were unknowingly taken to the oath ceremony pledged their support to NCP. Three MLAs who were among the 10-11 MLAs present during the oath-taking ceremony in the Raj Bhavan were present during the press conference which was addressed by Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena leaders.

Maharashtra will not stay asleep if BJP tries to break Shiv Sena: Uddhav Thackeray

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has given his consent to become Maharashtra chief minister, senior party leader Sanjay Raut told media on Friday.

The development came shortly after Nationalist Congress Party leader Sharad Pawar said that Thackeray will lead Maharashtra government.&nbsp;

"We all have consensus on the name of Uddhav Thackeray as the Chief Minister," Pawar stated.

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Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Uddhav Thackeray has given his consent to become the chief minister. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> (file pic) <a href="https://t.co/jh4pGgeTHz">pic.twitter.com/jh4pGgeTHz</a>
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The NCP, the Congress and the Sena, earlier in the evening, held a high-octane meeting to deliberate the government forming formula in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Pawar said that the parties will hold a press conference on Saturday and that discussions are still going on, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

"Tomorrow we will also decide when to approach the Governor," he said.&nbsp;

"All three parties had positive discussions about government formation. We've reached a consensus on many issues but talks to continue tomorrow. Whatever Sharad Pawar Ji has said is on record, I won't speak on that. When we've discussed all things, we'll speak on them," former Maharashtra CM and Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan said.

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NCP Chief Sharad Pawar after Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress meeting: We all have consensus on the name of Uddhav Thackeray as Chief Minister. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Maharashtra?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Maharashtra</a> <a href="https://t.co/UTV9Lrk2c0">pic.twitter.com/UTV9Lrk2c0</a>
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Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that the meeting between the three parties was "inconclusive" and that the "discussions will continue tomorrow".

The three parties held hectic deliberations earlier today to decide upon government formation in Maharashtra.

Maharashtra came under President's Rule on November 12 after all the parties failed to form a government in the state.&nbsp;

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Prithviraj Chavan, Congress:All 3 parties had positive discussions about govt formation. We've reached consensus on many issues but talks to continue tomorrow.Whatever Sharad Pawar Ji has said is on record,I won't speak on that. When we've discussed all things,we'll speak on them <a href="https://t.co/dHiXUB3Cic">pic.twitter.com/dHiXUB3Cic</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197882991298531328?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state.

The Shiv Sena is now in talks with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)&nbsp;

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has given his consent to become Maharashtra chief minister, senior party leader Sanjay Raut told media on Friday. The development came shortly after Nationalist Congress Party leader Sharad Pawar said that Thackeray will lead Maharashtra government.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has given his consent to become Maharashtra chief minister, senior party leader Sanjay Raut told media on Friday. The development came shortly after Nationalist Congress Party leader Sharad Pawar said that Thackeray will lead Maharashtra government. "We all have consensus on the name of Uddhav Thackeray as the Chief Minister," Pawar stated. Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Uddhav Thackeray has given his consent to become the chief minister. #Maharashtra (file pic) pic.twitter.com/jh4pGgeTHz — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2019 × The NCP, the Congress and the Sena, earlier in the evening, held a high-octane meeting to deliberate the government forming formula in Maharashtra. Pawar said that the parties will hold a press conference on Saturday and that discussions are still going on, news agency ANI reported. "Tomorrow we will also decide when to approach the Governor," he said. "All three parties had positive discussions about government formation. We've reached a consensus on many issues but talks to continue tomorrow. Whatever Sharad Pawar Ji has said is on record, I won't speak on that. When we've discussed all things, we'll speak on them," former Maharashtra CM and Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan said. NCP Chief Sharad Pawar after Shiv Sena-NCP-Congress meeting: We all have consensus on the name of Uddhav Thackeray as Chief Minister. #Maharashtra pic.twitter.com/UTV9Lrk2c0 — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2019 × Senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that the meeting between the three parties was "inconclusive" and that the "discussions will continue tomorrow". The three parties held hectic deliberations earlier today to decide upon government formation in Maharashtra. Maharashtra came under President's Rule on November 12 after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. Prithviraj Chavan, Congress:All 3 parties had positive discussions about govt formation. We've reached consensus on many issues but talks to continue tomorrow.Whatever Sharad Pawar Ji has said is on record,I won't speak on that. When we've discussed all things,we'll speak on them pic.twitter.com/dHiXUB3Cic — ANI (@ANI) November 22, 2019 × The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by state Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state. The Shiv Sena is now in talks with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44. (With inputs from ANI)

Uddhav Thackeray has given consent to become Maharashtra Chief Minister: Sanjay Raut

Congress Legislative Party"&gt;Congress Legislative Party meeting will be held on Friday at Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan, to elect their legislative party leader.

Modalities have been finalised on the formation of the government in Maharashtra between the Congress, Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and all the three parties have, in principle, agreed upon ministerial berths according to their strength in the assembly, sources said on Thursday.

The Common Minimum Programme (CMP) between Congress and NCP has been sealed and will be discussed with the Shiv Sena in Mumbai on Friday, sources added.

Earlier today, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting was held at party interim president Sonia Gandhi's 10 Janpath residence. Several senior leaders including Malikarjun Kharge, Ahmed Patel, AK Antony and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury had attended the meeting.

Maharashtra came under President's Rule on November 12 after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari.

The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state.

The Shiv Sena is now holding talks with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra.

The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.&nbsp;

Congress Legislative Party">Congress Legislative Party meeting will be held on Friday at Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan, to elect their legislative party leader. Modalities have been finalised on the formation of the government in Maharashtra between the Congress, Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and all the three parties have, in principle, agreed upon ministerial berths according to their strength in the assembly, sources said on Thursday.

Congress Legislative Party">Congress Legislative Party meeting will be held on Friday at Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan, to elect their legislative party leader. Modalities have been finalised on the formation of the government in Maharashtra between the Congress, Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and all the three parties have, in principle, agreed upon ministerial berths according to their strength in the assembly, sources said on Thursday. The Common Minimum Programme (CMP) between Congress and NCP has been sealed and will be discussed with the Shiv Sena in Mumbai on Friday, sources added. Earlier today, the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting was held at party interim president Sonia Gandhi's 10 Janpath residence. Several senior leaders including Malikarjun Kharge, Ahmed Patel, AK Antony and Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury had attended the meeting. Maharashtra came under President's Rule on November 12 after all the parties failed to form a government in the state. The BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. Shiv Sena parted its ways with BJP to explore ways to form a government. It, however, failed to prove the support of the required number of MLAs in the time given by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. The Governor had then invited NCP, the third-largest party, to prove its ability to form the government failing which President's Rule was imposed in the state. The Shiv Sena is now holding talks with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Maharashtra: Congress Legislative Party meeting to be held on Friday

At a time when speculations are rife that NCP may <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-shiv-sena-coming-together-in-maharashtra-for-greed-of-power-haryana-minister-anil-vij-262618">cobble together an alliance</a> with BJP to form government in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut exuded confidence that a government will be formed in Maharashtra by the first week of December and its Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena.

He also said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strong-and-stable-government-will-be-formed-in-maharashtra-soon-sanjay-raut-263098">uncertainty over government</a> formation will be over by noon on Thursday.

"The government will be formed in Maharashtra by the first week of December and its Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena," said Sanjay Raut.

"All the obstructions which were there in the last 10-15 days, regarding the formation of government in Maharashtra, are not there anymore. You will get to know by noon tomorrow that all the obstructions are gone. The picture will be clear by tomorrow afternoon," he said.

Amid political uncertainty in Maharashtra, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-will-discuss-maharashtra-farmers-issues-with-pm-modi-today-263275">Sharad Pawar will meet Prime Minister </a>Narendra Modi on Wednesday in Parliament over the issue of Maharashtra farmers. The meeting will be held at noon.

Meanwhile, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-political-crisis-top-leaders-of-ncp-and-congress-to-meet-in-new-delhi-today-263293">meeting of Congress and NCP leaders</a> is scheduled to be held on Wednesday evening in the national capital. NCP leaders including party chief Sharad Pawar, Praful Patel and Ajit Pawar, and Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge, Prithviraj Chavan and Ashok Chavan amongst others will be present at the meeting.

On Monday, Sharad Pawar met Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi at the latter's residence here. However, the NCP leader said that they did not talk about government formation in Maharashtra.

At a time when speculations are rife that NCP may cobble together an alliance with BJP to form government in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut exuded confidence that a government will be formed in Maharashtra by the first week of December and its Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena.

At a time when speculations are rife that NCP may cobble together an alliance with BJP to form government in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut exuded confidence that a government will be formed in Maharashtra by the first week of December and its Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena. He also said that uncertainty over government formation will be over by noon on Thursday. "The government will be formed in Maharashtra by the first week of December and its Chief Minister will be from Shiv Sena," said Sanjay Raut. "All the obstructions which were there in the last 10-15 days, regarding the formation of government in Maharashtra, are not there anymore. You will get to know by noon tomorrow that all the obstructions are gone. The picture will be clear by tomorrow afternoon," he said. Amid political uncertainty in Maharashtra, Sharad Pawar will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday in Parliament over the issue of Maharashtra farmers. The meeting will be held at noon. Meanwhile, a meeting of Congress and NCP leaders is scheduled to be held on Wednesday evening in the national capital. NCP leaders including party chief Sharad Pawar, Praful Patel and Ajit Pawar, and Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge, Prithviraj Chavan and Ashok Chavan amongst others will be present at the meeting. On Monday, Sharad Pawar met Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi at the latter's residence here. However, the NCP leader said that they did not talk about government formation in Maharashtra.

Government will be formed in Maharashtra with Shiv Sena CM by first week of December: Sanjay Raut

The Congress and NCP will able to give a "stable" government to Maharashtra, senior Congress leader said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Addressing a press conference, former CM Prithviraj Chavan said that both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-political-crisis-top-leaders-of-ncp-and-congress-to-meet-in-new-delhi-today-263293">Congress and NCP </a>had long and "positive" discussions today, adding that they will soon form a stable government in Maharashtra.

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Prithviraj Chavan, Congress on Maharashtra govt formation: Congress-NCP has had long and positive discussions today. Discussions will continue; I am sure we will be able to give a stable govt to Maharashtra very soon. <a href="https://t.co/148KbFDhs0">pic.twitter.com/148KbFDhs0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197168535824240640?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It should be noted that Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have to come together in order to bring enough numbers to form government in the state. Maharashtra is currently under <a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/maharashtra-placed-under-presidents-rule-after-parties-fail-to-claim-power-261610">President's rule </a>as both BJP and Shiv Sena were not able to form government in the deadline allotted to them.&nbsp;

On Wednesday, senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that the whole of Maharashtra desires that Uddhav Thackeray becomes the CM.&nbsp;

"When three parties form a government, the process becomes long. This process has started today. In coming two-five days, a government will be formed in Maharashtra," Raut said.&nbsp;

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Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Shiv Sena ka mukhyamantri banna chahiye yeh Maharashtra ki janta ki ichha hai. Yeh rajya ki bhavna hai ki Uddhav Thackeray Ji netritv karen. <a href="https://t.co/LiYgmedGft">https://t.co/LiYgmedGft</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197178488077217792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Senior Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal also briefed the party's interim chief Sonia Gandhi regarding the meeting with NCP.

Earlier on Wednesday, NCP chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-meets-pm-narendra-modi-to-discuss-farmer-crisis-in-maharashtra-263410">Sharad Pawar met PM Narendra Modi</a>, leading to reports of new political arithmetic in Maharashtra. PM Modi also praised NCP on Tuesday during his address in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House).&nbsp;

However, NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik late on Wednesday&nbsp;said that both Congress and NCP have decided to form an "alternative" government in Maharashtra. He also added that this "alternative" will not be possible without Shiv Sena, NCP, Congress joining hands.&nbsp;

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Nawab Malik: Congress-NCP together decided that we must give an alternate govt in Maharashtra. It is not possible without NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena coming together. We are trying our best to resolve all issues. We will provide alternate govt as soon as possible. <a href="https://t.co/51osLVVtDA">https://t.co/51osLVVtDA</a> <a href="https://t.co/TXG0npr5nM">pic.twitter.com/TXG0npr5nM</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1197171067220983808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Last week, all three parties drafted a common minimum programme (CMP) to form government in the state. Senior leaders of NCP and Congress are continuing discussions over finalising the CMP.&nbsp;

Earlier, traditional allies BJP and Shiv Sena had formed an alliance for the Assembly elections in Maharashtra. However, after the results were declared on October 24, both parties had a fallout over the power-sharing agreement. BJP denies Shiv Sena's claims of 50:50 agreement where both parties will have its CM for 2.5 years.

BJP won the maximum number of seats (105) in recently held elections in the state. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. &nbsp;A majority of 145 seats are required in order to form government in Maharastra.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The Congress and NCP will able to give a "stable" government to Maharashtra, senior Congress leader said on Wednesday. Addressing a press conference, former CM Prithviraj Chavan said that both Congress and NCP had long and "positive" discussions today, adding that they will soon form a stable government in Maharashtra.

The Congress and NCP will able to give a "stable" government to Maharashtra, senior Congress leader said on Wednesday. Addressing a press conference, former CM Prithviraj Chavan said that both Congress and NCP had long and "positive" discussions today, adding that they will soon form a stable government in Maharashtra. Prithviraj Chavan, Congress on Maharashtra govt formation: Congress-NCP has had long and positive discussions today. Discussions will continue; I am sure we will be able to give a stable govt to Maharashtra very soon. pic.twitter.com/148KbFDhs0 — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2019 × It should be noted that Shiv Sena, Congress and NCP have to come together in order to bring enough numbers to form government in the state. Maharashtra is currently under President's rule as both BJP and Shiv Sena were not able to form government in the deadline allotted to them. On Wednesday, senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut said that the whole of Maharashtra desires that Uddhav Thackeray becomes the CM. "When three parties form a government, the process becomes long. This process has started today. In coming two-five days, a government will be formed in Maharashtra," Raut said. Sanjay Raut, Shiv Sena: Shiv Sena ka mukhyamantri banna chahiye yeh Maharashtra ki janta ki ichha hai. Yeh rajya ki bhavna hai ki Uddhav Thackeray Ji netritv karen. https://t.co/LiYgmedGft — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2019 × Senior Congress leaders Ahmed Patel, Mallikarjun Kharge and KC Venugopal also briefed the party's interim chief Sonia Gandhi regarding the meeting with NCP. Earlier on Wednesday, NCP chief Sharad Pawar met PM Narendra Modi, leading to reports of new political arithmetic in Maharashtra. PM Modi also praised NCP on Tuesday during his address in the Rajya Sabha (Upper House). However, NCP spokesperson Nawab Malik late on Wednesday said that both Congress and NCP have decided to form an "alternative" government in Maharashtra. He also added that this "alternative" will not be possible without Shiv Sena, NCP, Congress joining hands. Nawab Malik: Congress-NCP together decided that we must give an alternate govt in Maharashtra. It is not possible without NCP-Congress-Shiv Sena coming together. We are trying our best to resolve all issues. We will provide alternate govt as soon as possible. https://t.co/51osLVVtDA pic.twitter.com/TXG0npr5nM — ANI (@ANI) November 20, 2019 × Last week, all three parties drafted a common minimum programme (CMP) to form government in the state. Senior leaders of NCP and Congress are continuing discussions over finalising the CMP. Earlier, traditional allies BJP and Shiv Sena had formed an alliance for the Assembly elections in Maharashtra. However, after the results were declared on October 24, both parties had a fallout over the power-sharing agreement. BJP denies Shiv Sena's claims of 50:50 agreement where both parties will have its CM for 2.5 years. BJP won the maximum number of seats (105) in recently held elections in the state. Shiv Sena, NCP and Congress claimed 56, 54 and 44 seats respectively. A majority of 145 seats are required in order to form government in Maharastra.

Maharashtra power struggle: Congress, NCP say discussions 'positive', will give 'stable' govt soon

Senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Tuesday said that that a strong and stable government led by his party will be formed in Maharashtra soon. Raut's comments came a day after his meeting with Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad pawar.

Senior Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut on Tuesday said that that a strong and stable government led by his party will be formed in Maharashtra soon. Raut's comments came a day after his meeting with Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad pawar. "A Shiv Sena-led government will be formed in Maharashtra soon. It will be a stable, strong and effective government. We want Uddhav Thackerey to lead the government," Raut was quoted as saying in a press conference. Raut said that his party will have the support of 170 MLAs in the assembly. "Shiv Sena is the largest party in the country. We have 18 MP and we are going to form a government in Maharashtra. We don't need anyone's interference. We will have the support of 170 MLAs on the floor," Raut said. He said that there is a consensus across party lines that the President's rule should end in the state. "I talked about the formation of government in the meeting with NCP leader Sharad Pawar yesterday. There is a consensus across party lines be it Shiv Sena, NCP, Congress or BJP that a government should be formed in the state," he noted. Raut met Pawar at his residence hours after the NCP chief met Congress interim president Sonia Gandhi. President's rule was imposed in Maharashtra after parties failed to form a government. (With inputs from ANI)

Strong and stable government will be formed in Maharashtra soon: Sanjay Raut 

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shiv-sena-chief-uddhav-thackeray-cancels-ayodhya-visit-due-to-security-concern-262854">Shiv Sena</a> on Tuesday hit out at former ally BJP for removing them from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and making their MPs sit in the opposition side in both houses of the Parliament.

On Sunday, Union parliamentary affairs minister Pralhad Joshi had said that Shiv Sena MPs are being allotted seats on the opposition side in both houses of Parliament after its lone minister Arvind Sawant in the Union council of ministers resigned and the party is "working out" alliance with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra.

In its mouthpiece Saamna, Shiv Sena said, "BJP leader Pralhad Joshi has announced Shiv Sena's removal from the NDA after it allied with Congress and the NCP in Maharashtra to form the government in the state. The Shiv Sena MPs were allotted seats on the opposition side in both houses of parliament. Those in the BJP who took this decision do not know about work done by Shiv Sena."

"When the BJP came into existence no party used to support it. When NDA was formed many leaders who are now holding posts in the present government were not holding any posts then and some of them were not even born," the editorial said.

Shiv Sena said, "When NDA was formed then important decisions were taken only after meeting the alliance partners under the leadership of George Fernandes and Lal Krishna Advani. We ask who is the leader of the NDA now?"

The editorial further questioned whether or not the decision to remove the party from the NDA was taken in a meeting with the alliance partners?

"Whatever has happened it has exposed those who were against the Shiv Sena. These people took the occasion of the occasion of the death anniversary of Balasaheb Thackeray to made the announcement of the removal of Shiv Sena from the NDA," the opinion piece said.

"When the whole country was paying tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray who was one of the founders of NDA on that occasion these people removed Shiv Sena from NDA. The decision was taken without any discussion or correspondence through a letter," the party added.

BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths.

The Shiv Sena is now in parleys with the Congress and the NCP to form a government in the state.

The BJP won 105 seats in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/haryana-maharashtra-assembly-polls-bjp-becomes-a-victim-of-its-own-expectations-258258">288-member assembly</a> followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Shiv Sena on Tuesday hit out at former ally BJP for removing them from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and making their MPs sit in the opposition side in both houses of the Parliament.

Shiv Sena on Tuesday hit out at former ally BJP for removing them from the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) and making their MPs sit in the opposition side in both houses of the Parliament. On Sunday, Union parliamentary affairs minister Pralhad Joshi had said that Shiv Sena MPs are being allotted seats on the opposition side in both houses of Parliament after its lone minister Arvind Sawant in the Union council of ministers resigned and the party is "working out" alliance with the Congress and NCP to form a government in Maharashtra. In its mouthpiece Saamna, Shiv Sena said, "BJP leader Pralhad Joshi has announced Shiv Sena's removal from the NDA after it allied with Congress and the NCP in Maharashtra to form the government in the state. The Shiv Sena MPs were allotted seats on the opposition side in both houses of parliament. Those in the BJP who took this decision do not know about work done by Shiv Sena." "When the BJP came into existence no party used to support it. When NDA was formed many leaders who are now holding posts in the present government were not holding any posts then and some of them were not even born," the editorial said. Shiv Sena said, "When NDA was formed then important decisions were taken only after meeting the alliance partners under the leadership of George Fernandes and Lal Krishna Advani. We ask who is the leader of the NDA now?" The editorial further questioned whether or not the decision to remove the party from the NDA was taken in a meeting with the alliance partners? "Whatever has happened it has exposed those who were against the Shiv Sena. These people took the occasion of the occasion of the death anniversary of Balasaheb Thackeray to made the announcement of the removal of Shiv Sena from the NDA," the opinion piece said. "When the whole country was paying tribute to Balasaheb Thackeray who was one of the founders of NDA on that occasion these people removed Shiv Sena from NDA. The decision was taken without any discussion or correspondence through a letter," the party added. BJP, which emerged as the single largest party, could not stake claim to form a government as its ally Shiv Sena remained firm on rotating the Chief Minister's post and equal sharing of Cabinet berths. The Shiv Sena is now in parleys with the Congress and the NCP to form a government in the state. The BJP won 105 seats in the 288-member assembly followed by Shiv Sena 56, NCP 54 and Congress 44.

Shiv Sena hits out at BJP for making its MPs sit in opposition in Parliament

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

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

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

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

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