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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Congress' Ashok Chavan to visit Sanjay Raut in hospital

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

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

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

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

A meeting between Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and NCP chief Sharad Pawar is currently underway here.

The meeting is crucial as there are speculations that NCP and Congress may support Shiv Sena to form the government in Maharashtra. After BJP failed to form the government, Shiv Sena was asked by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari to express its ability for government formation.

Earlier, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut also talked about a Common Minimum Programme to form the government among three parties.

Meanwhile, Congress has also called a meeting of party leaders from Maharashtra to discuss the political situation. NCP has 54 MLAs while its alliance partner Congress has 44.&nbsp;

If Shiv Sena, which had 56 legislators, gets the support of NCP and Congress, it will easily cross the majority mark of 145 in 288-member Maharashtra Assembly. The NDA alliance received a majority in Maharashtra after the BJP won 105 and Shiv Sena bagged 56 seats.

A meeting between Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and NCP chief Sharad Pawar is currently underway here. The meeting is crucial as there are speculations that NCP and Congress may support Shiv Sena to form the government in Maharashtra.

A meeting between Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and NCP chief Sharad Pawar is currently underway here. The meeting is crucial as there are speculations that NCP and Congress may support Shiv Sena to form the government in Maharashtra. After BJP failed to form the government, Shiv Sena was asked by Governor Bhagat Singh Koshiyari to express its ability for government formation. Earlier, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut also talked about a Common Minimum Programme to form the government among three parties. Meanwhile, Congress has also called a meeting of party leaders from Maharashtra to discuss the political situation. NCP has 54 MLAs while its alliance partner Congress has 44. If Shiv Sena, which had 56 legislators, gets the support of NCP and Congress, it will easily cross the majority mark of 145 in 288-member Maharashtra Assembly. The NDA alliance received a majority in Maharashtra after the BJP won 105 and Shiv Sena bagged 56 seats.

Maharashtra government formation: Meeting underway between Uddhav Thackeray, Sharad Pawar

Hailing the Supreme Court's decision today on Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title dispute case, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has said that he will be going to Ayodhya on November 24.

"This day will be written in golden letters in the history of India as the dispute over Ram Mandir has finally come to an end. I bow down to the Supreme Court for this historic verdict. Everyone has accepted the verdict. I will be going to Ayodhya on 24 November," Thackeray said at a press conference.

The Shiv Sena chief also appealed to the people and his party workers to maintain peace and harmony and make sure nobody's sentiments get hurt while celebrating this day.

When asked whom he would remember after this verdict, Uddhav replied, "Today I would remember Shiv Sena supremo late Balasaheb Thackeray and other veterans like Ashok Singhal, Lal Krishna Advani and all the 'Karsevaks'&nbsp;who had agitated for this."

He added that he will meet former deputy prime minister LK Advani.

"I will also visit LK Advaniji to thank him and congratulate him. He had taken out 'Rath-Yatra'&nbsp;for this. I will surely meet him and seek his blessings."

On his visit to Ayodhya, Uddhav said, "When I last visited Ayodhya less than a year ago, I had taken some soil from the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and it was magical. I will visit Shivneri - the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj, and Ayodhya again for sure."

On June 16 this year, Uddhav and son Aditya Thackeray had visited Ayodhya and offered prayers at the makeshift Ram Lalla shrine.

Eighteen Shiv Sena MPs had also reached the city on June 15. Uddhav had visited Ayodhya last year too on November 25.

The Supreme Court on Saturday directed the Centre to give five acres of suitable land to Sunni Waqf Board and at the same time make necessary arrangements for the construction of the temple by forming a trust.

A five-judge constitution bench presided by Chief Justice Gogoi and comprising Justices SA Bobde, DY Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer passed the order on a bunch of petitions against an order of the Allahabad High Court which trifurcated the site between the parties -- Ramlalla Virajman, Sunni Central Waqf Board and Nirmohi Akhara.

 
&nbsp;

Hailing the Supreme Court's decision today on Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title dispute case, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has said that he will be going to Ayodhya on November 24.

Hailing the Supreme Court's decision today on Ayodhya Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid title dispute case, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray has said that he will be going to Ayodhya on November 24. "This day will be written in golden letters in the history of India as the dispute over Ram Mandir has finally come to an end. I bow down to the Supreme Court for this historic verdict. Everyone has accepted the verdict. I will be going to Ayodhya on 24 November," Thackeray said at a press conference. The Shiv Sena chief also appealed to the people and his party workers to maintain peace and harmony and make sure nobody's sentiments get hurt while celebrating this day. When asked whom he would remember after this verdict, Uddhav replied, "Today I would remember Shiv Sena supremo late Balasaheb Thackeray and other veterans like Ashok Singhal, Lal Krishna Advani and all the 'Karsevaks' who had agitated for this." He added that he will meet former deputy prime minister LK Advani. "I will also visit LK Advaniji to thank him and congratulate him. He had taken out 'Rath-Yatra' for this. I will surely meet him and seek his blessings." On his visit to Ayodhya, Uddhav said, "When I last visited Ayodhya less than a year ago, I had taken some soil from the birthplace of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, and it was magical. I will visit Shivneri - the birthplace of Shivaji Maharaj, and Ayodhya again for sure." On June 16 this year, Uddhav and son Aditya Thackeray had visited Ayodhya and offered prayers at the makeshift Ram Lalla shrine. Eighteen Shiv Sena MPs had also reached the city on June 15. Uddhav had visited Ayodhya last year too on November 25. The Supreme Court on Saturday directed the Centre to give five acres of suitable land to Sunni Waqf Board and at the same time make necessary arrangements for the construction of the temple by forming a trust. A five-judge constitution bench presided by Chief Justice Gogoi and comprising Justices SA Bobde, DY Chandrachud, Ashok Bhushan and S Abdul Nazeer passed the order on a bunch of petitions against an order of the Allahabad High Court which trifurcated the site between the parties -- Ramlalla Virajman, Sunni Central Waqf Board and Nirmohi Akhara.

Uddhav Thackeray hails Supreme Court verdict, to visit Ayodhya on November 24

The ongoing tussle between Shiv Sena and BJP over forming government in Maharashtra has taken a new turn on Thursday after Sena decided to shift its MLAs to a hotel in Mumbai.&nbsp;

Shifting elected members to a hotel or resort has been observed in India in recent times in order to avoid poaching by other parties. This move is taken as any one party fails to get the required numbers to form the government.&nbsp;

The decision was taken after Shiv Sena MLAs met party chief Uddhav Thackeray at his residence "Matoshree" on Thursday. "We (Shiv Sena MLAs) will be staying at Hotel Rangsharda for next 2 days. We will do whatever Uddhav Sahab asks us to do," said Shiv Sena MLA Gulabrao Patil, reports ANI.

Today, a delegation of BJP led by party's state head Chandrakant Patil also met the Governor of Maharashtra Bhagat Singh Koshyari. Reports also floated today of union minister Nitin Gadkari taking over as CM post. Gadkari later clarified that he has no intention of becoming the CM of Maharashtra but added that government in Maharashtra will be formed under the leadership of incumbent CM Devendra Fadnavis. Gadkari is also seen as a mediator between BJP and Shiv Sena.&nbsp;

In the 288-member Assembly in Maharashtra, 145 seats are required by any one group to form the government. The Shiv Sena and BJP entered into an alliance during elections in Maharashtra but after the elections got over both parties are locked horn over the post of the CM. On one hand, BJP claims that no 50:50 formula was decided before the elections, while Shiv Sena says that both parties decided to enter into an alliance with an equal tenure of CMs of their respective parties.&nbsp;

The demand to make Uddhav's son Aaditya Thackeray as CM is also rising within the Sena. &nbsp;

In the Maharashtra Assembly elections, BJP got the maximum seats: 105 and Shiv Sena won 56 seats. Both parties are well short of a majority but can form a government if they come together.&nbsp;

On Wednesday,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sharad-pawar-rules-out-possibility-of-alliance-with-shiv-sena-says-our-mandate-is-to-sit-in-opposition-260311">Sharad Pawar</a>, chief of NCP, which won 56 seats, has also clarified that his party will not come into an alliance with Shiv Sena and prefer to play the role of the Opposition.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

The ongoing tussle between Shiv Sena and BJP over forming government in Maharashtra has taken a new turn on Thursday after Sena decided to shift its MLAs to a hotel in Mumbai.

The ongoing tussle between Shiv Sena and BJP over forming government in Maharashtra has taken a new turn on Thursday after Sena decided to shift its MLAs to a hotel in Mumbai. Shifting elected members to a hotel or resort has been observed in India in recent times in order to avoid poaching by other parties. This move is taken as any one party fails to get the required numbers to form the government. The decision was taken after Shiv Sena MLAs met party chief Uddhav Thackeray at his residence "Matoshree" on Thursday. "We (Shiv Sena MLAs) will be staying at Hotel Rangsharda for next 2 days. We will do whatever Uddhav Sahab asks us to do," said Shiv Sena MLA Gulabrao Patil, reports ANI. Today, a delegation of BJP led by party's state head Chandrakant Patil also met the Governor of Maharashtra Bhagat Singh Koshyari. Reports also floated today of union minister Nitin Gadkari taking over as CM post. Gadkari later clarified that he has no intention of becoming the CM of Maharashtra but added that government in Maharashtra will be formed under the leadership of incumbent CM Devendra Fadnavis. Gadkari is also seen as a mediator between BJP and Shiv Sena. In the 288-member Assembly in Maharashtra, 145 seats are required by any one group to form the government. The Shiv Sena and BJP entered into an alliance during elections in Maharashtra but after the elections got over both parties are locked horn over the post of the CM. On one hand, BJP claims that no 50:50 formula was decided before the elections, while Shiv Sena says that both parties decided to enter into an alliance with an equal tenure of CMs of their respective parties. The demand to make Uddhav's son Aaditya Thackeray as CM is also rising within the Sena. In the Maharashtra Assembly elections, BJP got the maximum seats: 105 and Shiv Sena won 56 seats. Both parties are well short of a majority but can form a government if they come together. On Wednesday, Sharad Pawar, chief of NCP, which won 56 seats, has also clarified that his party will not come into an alliance with Shiv Sena and prefer to play the role of the Opposition. (With inputs from ANI)

As power battle intensifies in Maharashtra, Shiv Sena shifts MLAs to hotel

As the question over new chief minister of Maharashtra persists following Assembly polls win, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will chair a meeting with newly-elected party MLAs on Saturday.

The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance won an absolute majority in the Maharashtra assembly polls with the former emerging as the single largest party in the state with 105 seats.

Shiv Sena, on the other hand, bagged 56 seats in the elections. Earlier this week Thackeray raised questions over whether the BJP or his party will get the chief minister`s seat in the state.

"The important question is who will be the chief minister? When the Lok Sabha elections were held we had decided on the 50-50 formula in the state. (BJP state chief) Chandrakant Patil raised some issues this time which we understood but we can only tolerate so much. After all, we have to run our party too. If the need arises Amit (Shah) Ji should come here to carry out what was decided earlier," he said.

"Discussions should be held over what was decided and then it will be decided who the chief minister will be," the Shiv Sena chief added.

The NCP also increased its numbers as compared to the 2014 elections with 54 seats while the Congress slipped to the fourth position winning 44 seats.

As the question over new chief minister of Maharashtra persists following Assembly polls win, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will chair a meeting with newly-elected party MLAs on Saturday.

As the question over new chief minister of Maharashtra persists following Assembly polls win, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will chair a meeting with newly-elected party MLAs on Saturday. The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance won an absolute majority in the Maharashtra assembly polls with the former emerging as the single largest party in the state with 105 seats. Shiv Sena, on the other hand, bagged 56 seats in the elections. Earlier this week Thackeray raised questions over whether the BJP or his party will get the chief minister`s seat in the state. "The important question is who will be the chief minister? When the Lok Sabha elections were held we had decided on the 50-50 formula in the state. (BJP state chief) Chandrakant Patil raised some issues this time which we understood but we can only tolerate so much. After all, we have to run our party too. If the need arises Amit (Shah) Ji should come here to carry out what was decided earlier," he said. "Discussions should be held over what was decided and then it will be decided who the chief minister will be," the Shiv Sena chief added. The NCP also increased its numbers as compared to the 2014 elections with 54 seats while the Congress slipped to the fourth position winning 44 seats.

Uddhav Thackeray to chair meeting with Shiv Sena MLAs today

Shiv Sena MLA Pratap Sarnaik on Saturday said that BJP should give a written assurance that both alliance parties will a chance to run the government according to 50-50 formula promised by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during Lok Sabha elections.

"In our meeting, it was decided that like Amit Shah had promised 50-50 formula before Lok Sabha polls. So, both allies should get a chance to run the government for 2.5-2.5 years and Shiv Sena should also have Chief Minister. Uddhav ji should get this assurance in writing from BJP," Sarnaik, Shiv Sena MLA from Thane told reporters here.

The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance won an absolute majority in the Maharashtra assembly polls with the former emerging as the single largest party in the state with 105 seats.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena, on the other hand, bagged 56 seats in the elections.&nbsp;

Both parties also contested 2019 Lok Sabha elections and bagged 42 out of 48 seats in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena MLA Pratap Sarnaik on Saturday said that BJP should give a written assurance that both alliance parties will a chance to run the government according to 50-50 formula promised by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during Lok Sabha elections.

Shiv Sena MLA Pratap Sarnaik on Saturday said that BJP should give a written assurance that both alliance parties will a chance to run the government according to 50-50 formula promised by Union Home Minister Amit Shah during Lok Sabha elections. "In our meeting, it was decided that like Amit Shah had promised 50-50 formula before Lok Sabha polls. So, both allies should get a chance to run the government for 2.5-2.5 years and Shiv Sena should also have Chief Minister. Uddhav ji should get this assurance in writing from BJP," Sarnaik, Shiv Sena MLA from Thane told reporters here. The BJP-Shiv Sena alliance won an absolute majority in the Maharashtra assembly polls with the former emerging as the single largest party in the state with 105 seats. Shiv Sena, on the other hand, bagged 56 seats in the elections. Both parties also contested 2019 Lok Sabha elections and bagged 42 out of 48 seats in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena MLA asks BJP for written assurance on implementation of 50-50 formula

Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray is leading with 7,020 votes from Mumbai's Worli assembly constituency after the first round of counting in Maharashtra elections, according to initial trends of Election Commission (EC).

 
Aaditya Thackeray, the 29-year-old son of Shiv Sena chief, Uddhav Thackeray, is the first member of the family in the party's history to contest elections.

 
The junior Thackeray is pitted against Suresh Mane of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Gautam Anna Gaikwad of Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) and Bahujan Samaj Party's (BSP) Vishram Tida Padam in Worli assembly constituency.

Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading in 21 assembly constituencies in Maharashtra, while its ally Shiv Sena is ahead in 13 seats, as per official trends from EC.

 
Congress, on the other hand, is leading on five seats while its alliance partner, NCP is ahead in 15 seats.

 
Independents are leading on four seats, and the Krantikari Shetkari Party is ahead in one constituency, according to the EC.

 
There are 288 seats in the Maharashtra assembly. Counting of votes began at 8 am today.

 
The state went to polls in a single phase on October 21.

Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray is leading with 7,020 votes from Mumbai's Worli assembly constituency after the first round of counting in Maharashtra elections, according to initial trends of Election Commission (EC).

Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray is leading with 7,020 votes from Mumbai's Worli assembly constituency after the first round of counting in Maharashtra elections, according to initial trends of Election Commission (EC). Aaditya Thackeray, the 29-year-old son of Shiv Sena chief, Uddhav Thackeray, is the first member of the family in the party's history to contest elections. The junior Thackeray is pitted against Suresh Mane of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Gautam Anna Gaikwad of Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) and Bahujan Samaj Party's (BSP) Vishram Tida Padam in Worli assembly constituency. Meanwhile, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is leading in 21 assembly constituencies in Maharashtra, while its ally Shiv Sena is ahead in 13 seats, as per official trends from EC. Congress, on the other hand, is leading on five seats while its alliance partner, NCP is ahead in 15 seats. Independents are leading on four seats, and the Krantikari Shetkari Party is ahead in one constituency, according to the EC. There are 288 seats in the Maharashtra assembly. Counting of votes began at 8 am today. The state went to polls in a single phase on October 21.

Maharashtra polls: Aaditya Thackeray leading from Worli assembly seat

With the NDA all set to retain Maharashtra, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday thanked the people for the mandate but also raised questions over whether the BJP or his party will get the chief minister`s seat in the state.

"The important question is who will be the chief minister? When the Lok Sabha elections were held we had decided on the 50-50 formula in the state. (BJP state chief) Chandrakant Patil raised some issues this time which we understood but we can only tolerate so much. After all, we have to run our party too. If the need arises Amit (Shah) Ji should come here to carry out what was decided earlier," Thackeray said at a press conference in Mumbai.

"Discussions should be held over what was decided and then it will be decided who the chief minister will be," added Thackeray.&nbsp;

The Shiv Sena chief also thanked the people for the mandate, terming it an `eye-opener` for all the parties in Maharashtra.

"The people have kept alive democracy in this election. The mandate given by them is an eye-opener for all the parties in the state. We bow down to the votes given by the people in our favour and will work with the same attitude for them," Thackeray said.

Expressing satisfaction over the decisive win of his son Aaditya Thackeray from Worli seat, he said: "As a parent, I am proud of Aaditya`s victory and I love the fact that the people have given him their support."

Aaditya Thackeray won from Mumbai`s Worli assembly constituency, beating NCP`s Suresh Mane by a margin of over 67 thousand votes, according to the Election Commission (EC).

Aaditya, the 29-year-old son of Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, is the first member of the family in the party`s history to contest the election.

The junior Thackeray was pitted against Mane of NCP, Gautam Anna Gaikwad of Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) and Bahujan Samaj Party`s (BSP) Vishram Tida Padam in Worli assembly constituency.

Meanwhile, the BJP has won 36 seats while it is leading in 65 assembly constituencies in Maharashtra. Shiv Sena has won 28 seats and is ahead on 30 seats, as per official trends from the EC.

Congress-NCP, on the other hand, has won 38 seats while its candidates are ahead in 60 seats. There are 288 seats in the Maharashtra assembly.&nbsp;

With the NDA all set to retain Maharashtra, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday thanked the people for the mandate but also raised questions over whether the BJP or his party will get the chief minister`s seat in the state.

With the NDA all set to retain Maharashtra, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday thanked the people for the mandate but also raised questions over whether the BJP or his party will get the chief minister`s seat in the state. "The important question is who will be the chief minister? When the Lok Sabha elections were held we had decided on the 50-50 formula in the state. (BJP state chief) Chandrakant Patil raised some issues this time which we understood but we can only tolerate so much. After all, we have to run our party too. If the need arises Amit (Shah) Ji should come here to carry out what was decided earlier," Thackeray said at a press conference in Mumbai. "Discussions should be held over what was decided and then it will be decided who the chief minister will be," added Thackeray. The Shiv Sena chief also thanked the people for the mandate, terming it an `eye-opener` for all the parties in Maharashtra. "The people have kept alive democracy in this election. The mandate given by them is an eye-opener for all the parties in the state. We bow down to the votes given by the people in our favour and will work with the same attitude for them," Thackeray said. Expressing satisfaction over the decisive win of his son Aaditya Thackeray from Worli seat, he said: "As a parent, I am proud of Aaditya`s victory and I love the fact that the people have given him their support." Aaditya Thackeray won from Mumbai`s Worli assembly constituency, beating NCP`s Suresh Mane by a margin of over 67 thousand votes, according to the Election Commission (EC). Aaditya, the 29-year-old son of Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, is the first member of the family in the party`s history to contest the election. The junior Thackeray was pitted against Mane of NCP, Gautam Anna Gaikwad of Vanchit Bahujan Aghadi (VBA) and Bahujan Samaj Party`s (BSP) Vishram Tida Padam in Worli assembly constituency. Meanwhile, the BJP has won 36 seats while it is leading in 65 assembly constituencies in Maharashtra. Shiv Sena has won 28 seats and is ahead on 30 seats, as per official trends from the EC. Congress-NCP, on the other hand, has won 38 seats while its candidates are ahead in 60 seats. There are 288 seats in the Maharashtra assembly.

Discussions should be held over who will be next Maharashtra CM: Uddhav Thackeray

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday said that he will deal with the "murderers of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/aarey-row-38-arrested-55-detained-during-protest-against-cutting-of-trees-253962">Aarey forest</a> in the best possible way" after forming the government again in Maharashtra.

"Aarey is the most important issue for me right now. Whatever is happening today, whatever was happening yesterday and whatever will happen in future, I will take detailed and in-depth information of what the situation is and will speak firmly and directly on the issue," Thackeray told media here.

"The upcoming government will be our government and once our government comes into power once again, we will deal with the murderers of Aarey forest in the best possible way we can," he added.

This comes after a local court on Saturday sent 29 people to judicial custody for five days while police detained 55 others in connection with protests against the cutting of trees in Aarey colony area.

According to the police, as many as 38 people were arrested out of which 29 were produced before the Borivali Court, which sent them to judicial custody.

In addition to these, the police also detained 55 protesters for allegedly violating the prohibitory orders imposed near the Aarey colony area.

 
Since late-night itself, many protestors gathered at the site to raise their voice against the felling of trees.&nbsp;

As the day progressed more and more people joined protestors near the Aarey colony area, where the Mumbai Police imposed Section 144, thereby banning unlawful assembly.

The protesters opposed the cutting of trees for the construction of the car shed of the metro station.&nbsp;

They have demanded the relocation of the bus depot, which is a part of the Metro III project.

Leaders from various political parties including Shiv Sena and Congress have condemned the move to fell the trees.

Meanwhile, Thackeray further said, "We are confident that the NDA will come to power again... I`m not blaming anyone but I would just like to say that when my people are in power I aim to bring up social issues and it`s for genuine purposes and not for my own good."

On alleged differences in BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in previous term due to caste-related issues, Thackeray said, "The alliance was a little shaky before and that was because of conflict of interests... We fought separately before and had separate promises and to ensure that each and every promises are fulfilled, we had some differences... Dhangar reservation was a point of difference, Maratha reservations was an issue and other caste-related issues existed and we both had our own views on it but we have realized the root problems and will work towards it together to ensure justice is given to all."&nbsp;

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday said that he will deal with the "murderers of Aarey forest in the best possible way" after forming the government again in Maharashtra.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday said that he will deal with the "murderers of Aarey forest in the best possible way" after forming the government again in Maharashtra. "Aarey is the most important issue for me right now. Whatever is happening today, whatever was happening yesterday and whatever will happen in future, I will take detailed and in-depth information of what the situation is and will speak firmly and directly on the issue," Thackeray told media here. "The upcoming government will be our government and once our government comes into power once again, we will deal with the murderers of Aarey forest in the best possible way we can," he added. This comes after a local court on Saturday sent 29 people to judicial custody for five days while police detained 55 others in connection with protests against the cutting of trees in Aarey colony area. According to the police, as many as 38 people were arrested out of which 29 were produced before the Borivali Court, which sent them to judicial custody. In addition to these, the police also detained 55 protesters for allegedly violating the prohibitory orders imposed near the Aarey colony area. Since late-night itself, many protestors gathered at the site to raise their voice against the felling of trees. As the day progressed more and more people joined protestors near the Aarey colony area, where the Mumbai Police imposed Section 144, thereby banning unlawful assembly. The protesters opposed the cutting of trees for the construction of the car shed of the metro station. They have demanded the relocation of the bus depot, which is a part of the Metro III project. Leaders from various political parties including Shiv Sena and Congress have condemned the move to fell the trees. Meanwhile, Thackeray further said, "We are confident that the NDA will come to power again... I`m not blaming anyone but I would just like to say that when my people are in power I aim to bring up social issues and it`s for genuine purposes and not for my own good." On alleged differences in BJP-Shiv Sena alliance in previous term due to caste-related issues, Thackeray said, "The alliance was a little shaky before and that was because of conflict of interests... We fought separately before and had separate promises and to ensure that each and every promises are fulfilled, we had some differences... Dhangar reservation was a point of difference, Maratha reservations was an issue and other caste-related issues existed and we both had our own views on it but we have realized the root problems and will work towards it together to ensure justice is given to all."

Will deal with murderers once our government comes into power again: Uddhav Thackeray on Aarey row

With Maharashtra election&nbsp;roughly a month away, the state's far-right Nationalist party- Shiv Sena got its first 'Thackeray' as an electoral candidate. Aditya Thackeray, the 29-year-old grandson of Shiv Sena's founder Bal Thackeray filed his nomination in the presence of younger sibling Tejas, parents Uddhav and Rashmi Thackeray today.

On the way to file his candidature, Aditya Thackeray was given a rousing welcome, hundreds of Shiv Sena members accompanied him to the nomination centre in Worli. Dancing alongside his open jeep, fans and supporters were also seen showering flower petals on their young leader's cavalcade.

Having entered active politics in 2009, Aditya Thackeray will contest from South Mumbai's Worli constituency. Considered a safe bet for the Sena, Worli has a total strength of 2,68,932 voters.

The assembly constituency is a high-end residential locality, home to the rich and famous, surrounded by plush business parks. A sizeable number of Mumbai's original inhabitants- the Kolis reside along the Worli sea face- a popular seaside promenade.&nbsp;

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Shiv Sena's first poster of Aditya Thackeray that went up on the roads around his constituency read "Hello Worli" in various Indian languages. The party's move to put multilingual posters all across the constituency was viewed as an attempt to move away from regional politics it has long stayed loyal to.

With a young leader from the Thackeray clan being projected at the helm of affairs, the Sena is changing its messaging to appease all communities, thereby ensuring a greater victory margin for its star debutant.&nbsp;

October 4 being the last day for filing nominations, so far no other political party has fielded any candidate against Aditya Thackeray from the same constituency. This has further bolstered the party's confidence for an easy win.&nbsp;

Mandatory upon all candidates running for public office, the nomination process requires declaring assets owned by politicians in the election form affidavit. The details are for voters to know the source of the politician's wealth.&nbsp;

Aditya Thackeray declared assets worth over Rs 16 crore. As per the nomination form, he has bank deposits of Rs 10.36 crore, bonds/shares/mutual funds of approximately Rs 97 lakh, jewellery worth around Rs.1 crore, immovable properties worth Rs 4.67 crore, other investments worth Rs 10.22 lakh and cash in hand Rs 13,344.00.

With Maharashtra election roughly a month away, the state's far-right Nationalist party- Shiv Sena got its first 'Thackeray' as an electoral candidate. Aditya Thackeray, the 29-year-old grandson of Shiv Sena's founder Bal Thackeray filed his nomination in the presence of younger sibling Tejas, parents Uddhav and Rashmi Thackeray today.

With Maharashtra election roughly a month away, the state's far-right Nationalist party- Shiv Sena got its first 'Thackeray' as an electoral candidate. Aditya Thackeray, the 29-year-old grandson of Shiv Sena's founder Bal Thackeray filed his nomination in the presence of younger sibling Tejas, parents Uddhav and Rashmi Thackeray today. On the way to file his candidature, Aditya Thackeray was given a rousing welcome, hundreds of Shiv Sena members accompanied him to the nomination centre in Worli. Dancing alongside his open jeep, fans and supporters were also seen showering flower petals on their young leader's cavalcade. Having entered active politics in 2009, Aditya Thackeray will contest from South Mumbai's Worli constituency. Considered a safe bet for the Sena, Worli has a total strength of 2,68,932 voters. The assembly constituency is a high-end residential locality, home to the rich and famous, surrounded by plush business parks. A sizeable number of Mumbai's original inhabitants- the Kolis reside along the Worli sea face- a popular seaside promenade. × Shiv Sena's first poster of Aditya Thackeray that went up on the roads around his constituency read "Hello Worli" in various Indian languages. The party's move to put multilingual posters all across the constituency was viewed as an attempt to move away from regional politics it has long stayed loyal to. With a young leader from the Thackeray clan being projected at the helm of affairs, the Sena is changing its messaging to appease all communities, thereby ensuring a greater victory margin for its star debutant. October 4 being the last day for filing nominations, so far no other political party has fielded any candidate against Aditya Thackeray from the same constituency. This has further bolstered the party's confidence for an easy win. Mandatory upon all candidates running for public office, the nomination process requires declaring assets owned by politicians in the election form affidavit. The details are for voters to know the source of the politician's wealth. Aditya Thackeray declared assets worth over Rs 16 crore. As per the nomination form, he has bank deposits of Rs 10.36 crore, bonds/shares/mutual funds of approximately Rs 97 lakh, jewellery worth around Rs.1 crore, immovable properties worth Rs 4.67 crore, other investments worth Rs 10.22 lakh and cash in hand Rs 13,344.00.

Aditya Thackeray files nomination for upcoming Maharashtra election

<div class="content">
Ahead of the assembly elections in Maharashtra, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/maharashtra-chief-minister-devendra-fadnavis-to-discuss-state-cabinet-expansion-with-uddhav-thackeray-227250">Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis</a> said on Monday that his party was undergoing talks with Shiv Sena regarding seat-sharing.

He further added that a decision for the same will be taken soon.

Meanwhile, several reports speculate that Shiv Sena was thinking on contesting the elections all alone, without the alliance partner BJP.

Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray has reportedly asked his partymen to remain prepared to contest the upcoming assembly election without an alliance with the BJP, a report stated.

The two parties are under tussle over the number of seats for the polls.

Days before, sharing a stage with PM Modi, Thackeray had said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bjp-holds-the-aces-in-maharashtra-as-sena-has-to-play-second-fiddle-248814">alliance between BJP and Shiv Sena</a> for the assembly election was "inevitable".
</div>

Ahead of the assembly elections in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Monday that his party was undergoing talks with Shiv Sena regarding seat-sharing.

Ahead of the assembly elections in Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said on Monday that his party was undergoing talks with Shiv Sena regarding seat-sharing. He further added that a decision for the same will be taken soon. Meanwhile, several reports speculate that Shiv Sena was thinking on contesting the elections all alone, without the alliance partner BJP. Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray has reportedly asked his partymen to remain prepared to contest the upcoming assembly election without an alliance with the BJP, a report stated. The two parties are under tussle over the number of seats for the polls. Days before, sharing a stage with PM Modi, Thackeray had said that the alliance between BJP and Shiv Sena for the assembly election was "inevitable".

We'll soon take decision on seat sharing with Shiv Sena: Devendra Fadnavis

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday expressed confidence that Ram Mandir in Ayodhya would be constructed under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"We are sure the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will be back in power in the upcoming Assembly elections in the state. The alliance will be there. I am assuring you in the presence of Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) sure that Ram Mandir will be constructed under his leadership in Ayodhya," said Thackeray at a function organised to mark the laying of foundation stone for three metro lines."

As soon as PM Modi arrived here, I asked him for how many things I should thank him and wish him? All those things which we had been promising to bring in and implement for so many years have now been fulfilled by PM Modi. I am proud that Article 370 has been abrogated. This promise has been fulfilled. I am sure that we will build the Ram temple in Ayodhya," he added.

This was not the first time when Thackeray mentioned about the construction of Ram Mandir under Modi`s leadership.

Earlier in June too while addressing the party workers, Thackeray had stated, "I have said in Ayodhya that the Ram Mandir will be constructed during the tenure of the Modi government."

Prime Minister Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone for three metro lines, which will together add more than 42-km to the existing metro network of Mumbai.

These three corridors are -- 9.2-km long Gaimukh to Shivaji Chowk (Mira Road) Metro-10 corridor, 12.7-km long Wadala to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Metro-11 corridor and 20.7-km long Kalyan to Taloja Metro-12 corridor.

The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art Metro Bhavan, which will operate and control 14 metro lines measuring around 340 km.

During his visit, PM Modi also inaugurated Bandongri Metro station in Kandivali East. He also inaugurated a state-of-the-art metro coach, the first metro coach under the Make in India initiative. At an event here, Prime Minister Modi also released a `Brand Vision Document` for Maha Mumbai Metro.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday expressed confidence that Ram Mandir in Ayodhya would be constructed under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday expressed confidence that Ram Mandir in Ayodhya would be constructed under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "We are sure the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance will be back in power in the upcoming Assembly elections in the state. The alliance will be there. I am assuring you in the presence of Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) sure that Ram Mandir will be constructed under his leadership in Ayodhya," said Thackeray at a function organised to mark the laying of foundation stone for three metro lines." As soon as PM Modi arrived here, I asked him for how many things I should thank him and wish him? All those things which we had been promising to bring in and implement for so many years have now been fulfilled by PM Modi. I am proud that Article 370 has been abrogated. This promise has been fulfilled. I am sure that we will build the Ram temple in Ayodhya," he added. This was not the first time when Thackeray mentioned about the construction of Ram Mandir under Modi`s leadership. Earlier in June too while addressing the party workers, Thackeray had stated, "I have said in Ayodhya that the Ram Mandir will be constructed during the tenure of the Modi government." Prime Minister Modi on Saturday laid the foundation stone for three metro lines, which will together add more than 42-km to the existing metro network of Mumbai. These three corridors are -- 9.2-km long Gaimukh to Shivaji Chowk (Mira Road) Metro-10 corridor, 12.7-km long Wadala to Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus Metro-11 corridor and 20.7-km long Kalyan to Taloja Metro-12 corridor. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone for a state-of-the-art Metro Bhavan, which will operate and control 14 metro lines measuring around 340 km. During his visit, PM Modi also inaugurated Bandongri Metro station in Kandivali East. He also inaugurated a state-of-the-art metro coach, the first metro coach under the Make in India initiative. At an event here, Prime Minister Modi also released a `Brand Vision Document` for Maha Mumbai Metro.

Ram Mandir will be constructed under PM Modi's leadership: Uddhav Thackeray

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Monday welcomed the central government's decision to revoke Article 370 of the Constitution in Jammu and Kashmir.

Thackeray said that Shiv Sena has been long fighting for the removal of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-from-jammu-and-kashmir-all-you-need-to-know-240772">Article 370</a> and it fulfils the dream of late Bal Thackeray.

"Shiv Sena has been long fighting for this. If Balasaheb had been alive today, he would have been very happy... His dream has come true with this," Thackeray said.

The Shiv Sena chief further said that the country has secured 'full independence' with the scrapping of Article 370.

While Independence Day (August 15) is coming, with the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu &amp; Kashmir, the country has secured "full independence", he added.

He also urged the opposition parties to set aside all the differences and support <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-now-a-union-territory-ladakh-to-be-administered-from-delhi-as-ut-240769">the government's decision</a> in the interest of the nation.

Shiv Sena has an alliance with the BJP in Maharashtra and at the Centre.

Earlier in the day, the government revoked Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir.

Shortly after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-responsible-for-corruption-poverty-underdevelopment-in-jammu-and-kashmir-amit-shah-240865">Home Minister Amit Shah</a> tabled a resolution to this effect in Rajya Sabha, President Ram Nath Kovind came out with a notification - The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 2019 that will come into force immediately.

The order will supersede the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954 as amended from time to time.

Shah also moved the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill in the Upper House, that converted the state into a Union Territory with the legislature, and hived off Ladakh region into another Union Territory without legislature. 
 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Monday welcomed the central government's decision to revoke Article 370 of the Constitution in Jammu and Kashmir. Thackeray said that Shiv Sena has been long fighting for the removal of Article 370 and it fulfils the dream of late Bal Thackeray.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Monday welcomed the central government's decision to revoke Article 370 of the Constitution in Jammu and Kashmir. Thackeray said that Shiv Sena has been long fighting for the removal of Article 370 and it fulfils the dream of late Bal Thackeray. "Shiv Sena has been long fighting for this. If Balasaheb had been alive today, he would have been very happy... His dream has come true with this," Thackeray said. The Shiv Sena chief further said that the country has secured 'full independence' with the scrapping of Article 370. While Independence Day (August 15) is coming, with the abrogation of Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir, the country has secured "full independence", he added. He also urged the opposition parties to set aside all the differences and support the government's decision in the interest of the nation. Shiv Sena has an alliance with the BJP in Maharashtra and at the Centre. Earlier in the day, the government revoked Article 370 which gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. Shortly after Home Minister Amit Shah tabled a resolution to this effect in Rajya Sabha, President Ram Nath Kovind came out with a notification - The Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 2019 that will come into force immediately. The order will supersede the Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954 as amended from time to time. Shah also moved the Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill in the Upper House, that converted the state into a Union Territory with the legislature, and hived off Ladakh region into another Union Territory without legislature. (With inputs from agencies)

India now fully independent, Balasaheb's dream fulfilled: Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on scrapping of Article 370

Ahir Joshi, Mumbai President of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Thursday crossed over to Shiv Sena.

Ahir joined Shiv Sena in the presence of party chief Uddhav Thackeray and his son and Yuva Sena chief Aditya Thackeray at "Matoshree'.

Uddhav Thackeray welcomed Ahir to the Shiv Sena, saying his presence will strengthen the party.&nbsp;I assure that Sachin Ahir will not regret his decision. He has joined the party with his family... Politics should be done like politics and we will not leave our principles. But yes we will not leave any stone unturned for expansion and strengthening of our party," he said

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Maharashtra: Mumbai NCP president Sachin Ahir, joins Shiv Sena in the presence of party chief Uddhav Thackeray. <a href="https://t.co/LWcP5SgUL5">pic.twitter.com/LWcP5SgUL5</a>
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Ahir said he was impressed with the developmental work done by Shiv Sena for the masses. I felt that it would be good to work should-to-shoulder with them," Ahir said.

Reacting to Ahir's cross over, NCP national spokesperson Nawab Malik said NCP-Congress coalition will perform better than the BJP in the next elections.

Meanwhile, another NCP leader, Chhagan Bhujbal, dismissed the reports of joining Shiv Sena as baseless. I am going nowhere; I will be where I am. All other news is baseless and false," he said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Ahir Joshi, Mumbai President of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Thursday crossed over to Shiv Sena. Ahir joined Shiv Sena in the presence of party chief Uddhav Thackeray and his son and Yuva Sena chief Aditya Thackeray at "Matoshree'.

Ahir Joshi, Mumbai President of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) on Thursday crossed over to Shiv Sena. Ahir joined Shiv Sena in the presence of party chief Uddhav Thackeray and his son and Yuva Sena chief Aditya Thackeray at "Matoshree'. Uddhav Thackeray welcomed Ahir to the Shiv Sena, saying his presence will strengthen the party. I assure that Sachin Ahir will not regret his decision. He has joined the party with his family... Politics should be done like politics and we will not leave our principles. But yes we will not leave any stone unturned for expansion and strengthening of our party," he said Maharashtra: Mumbai NCP president Sachin Ahir, joins Shiv Sena in the presence of party chief Uddhav Thackeray. pic.twitter.com/LWcP5SgUL5 — ANI (@ANI) July 25, 2019 × Ahir said he was impressed with the developmental work done by Shiv Sena for the masses. I felt that it would be good to work should-to-shoulder with them," Ahir said. Reacting to Ahir's cross over, NCP national spokesperson Nawab Malik said NCP-Congress coalition will perform better than the BJP in the next elections. Meanwhile, another NCP leader, Chhagan Bhujbal, dismissed the reports of joining Shiv Sena as baseless. I am going nowhere; I will be where I am. All other news is baseless and false," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

NCP Mumbai chief Ahir Joshi cross over to BJP

On the occasion of 53rd foundation day of Shiv Sena, party chief Uddhav Thackeray said that their friendship with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is unbreakable and not a drama.

Lashing out at the opportunism of Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav, Thackeray said that the SP-BSP coalition in Uttar Pradesh ended soon after their debacle in the Lok Sabha elections because they had come together just to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from coming to power.

"Our friendship with BJP is not a drama, I think no other party has this kind of friendship. The drama was what happened in Uttar Pradesh, as soon as the election ended the coalition between Mayawati and Akhilesh too came to an end. On the other hand, whatever differences we had with the BJP were sorted out when Amit Shahji visited Matoshri," Shiv Sena chief&nbsp;said on Wednesday.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and other leaders from both the parties were also present at the event. Fadnavis said that there were some differences between the BJP and the Shiv Sena, but now they have been ironed out.

The chief minister claimed that the two parties will score a thumping victory in the upcoming Assembly elections in Maharashtra.

The two parties fought the Lok Sabha election together.

(With inputs from agencies)

On the occasion of 53rd foundation day of Shiv Sena, party chief Uddhav Thackeray said that their friendship with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is unbreakable and not a drama.

On the occasion of 53rd foundation day of Shiv Sena, party chief Uddhav Thackeray said that their friendship with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is unbreakable and not a drama. Lashing out at the opportunism of Mayawati and Akhilesh Yadav, Thackeray said that the SP-BSP coalition in Uttar Pradesh ended soon after their debacle in the Lok Sabha elections because they had come together just to stop Prime Minister Narendra Modi from coming to power. "Our friendship with BJP is not a drama, I think no other party has this kind of friendship. The drama was what happened in Uttar Pradesh, as soon as the election ended the coalition between Mayawati and Akhilesh too came to an end. On the other hand, whatever differences we had with the BJP were sorted out when Amit Shahji visited Matoshri," Shiv Sena chief said on Wednesday. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and other leaders from both the parties were also present at the event. Fadnavis said that there were some differences between the BJP and the Shiv Sena, but now they have been ironed out. The chief minister claimed that the two parties will score a thumping victory in the upcoming Assembly elections in Maharashtra. The two parties fought the Lok Sabha election together. (With inputs from agencies)

Shiv Sena's friendship with BJP is unbreakable: Uddhav Thackeray

Shiv Sena chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/amit-shah-to-hold-dinner-for-nda-allies-today-uddhav-thackeray-nitish-kumar-paswan-to-attend-220404">Uddhav Thackeray</a> and his son Aditya Thackeray arrived here on Sunday to offer prayers at the makeshift Ram Lalla shrine.

Eighteen Shiv Sena MPs had reached the city yesterday evening.

The father-son duo was welcomed by Union Minister Arvind Sawant and party spokesperson Sanjay Raut.

The Sena chief will hold a press conference later. He had visited Ayodhya in November last year and asked the central government to announce a date for the construction of Ram temple.

He had said that his party will extend support if an ordinance is brought for the purpose.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and his son Aditya Thackeray arrived here on Sunday to offer prayers at the makeshift Ram Lalla shrine. Eighteen Shiv Sena MPs had reached the city yesterday evening.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray and his son Aditya Thackeray arrived here on Sunday to offer prayers at the makeshift Ram Lalla shrine. Eighteen Shiv Sena MPs had reached the city yesterday evening. The father-son duo was welcomed by Union Minister Arvind Sawant and party spokesperson Sanjay Raut. The Sena chief will hold a press conference later. He had visited Ayodhya in November last year and asked the central government to announce a date for the construction of Ram temple. He had said that his party will extend support if an ordinance is brought for the purpose.

Uddhav Thackeray offers prayers to Ram Lalla in Ayodhya along with party MPs

The government should bring an ordinance to construct Ram temple, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday in Ayodhya, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has the courage to do so and there would be no one to stop it.

Thackeray offered prayers at the makeshift Ram Lalla temple along with his son Aditya and 18 newly-elected lawmakers of his party. The Shiv Sena has said the visit was to fulfil the promise Thackeray made last November to come to Ayodhya again after the elections.

"The case is in court for many years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has courage. If the government takes the decision, there is no one to stop it. Not only Shiv Sena but Hindus of the whole world are also with this," Uddhav said while addressing a press conference after his visit to the Ram Lalla (or infant Ram) temple.

"The government should bring an ordinance for construction of Ram temple. The issue concerns all Hindus and the temple has to be constructed at the earliest," he said, raising the slogan of "Kanoon banao, mandir banao (formulate law and construct temple)".

Maharashtra will be going to polls later this year and the visit is being seen as an attempt by the Shive Sena to put pressure on ally BJP on the Ram temple issue. But Sena has maintained that Thackeray's visit should not be seen through the electoral lens.

"For us, Ram temple is a matter of faith and not politics," Thackeray said.

The title suit over the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site is being heard by the Supreme Court.

The government should bring an ordinance to construct Ram temple, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday in Ayodhya, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has the courage to do so and there would be no one to stop it.

The government should bring an ordinance to construct Ram temple, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said on Sunday in Ayodhya, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has the courage to do so and there would be no one to stop it. Thackeray offered prayers at the makeshift Ram Lalla temple along with his son Aditya and 18 newly-elected lawmakers of his party. The Shiv Sena has said the visit was to fulfil the promise Thackeray made last November to come to Ayodhya again after the elections. "The case is in court for many years. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has courage. If the government takes the decision, there is no one to stop it. Not only Shiv Sena but Hindus of the whole world are also with this," Uddhav said while addressing a press conference after his visit to the Ram Lalla (or infant Ram) temple. "The government should bring an ordinance for construction of Ram temple. The issue concerns all Hindus and the temple has to be constructed at the earliest," he said, raising the slogan of "Kanoon banao, mandir banao (formulate law and construct temple)". Maharashtra will be going to polls later this year and the visit is being seen as an attempt by the Shive Sena to put pressure on ally BJP on the Ram temple issue. But Sena has maintained that Thackeray's visit should not be seen through the electoral lens. "For us, Ram temple is a matter of faith and not politics," Thackeray said. The title suit over the Ram Janmabhoomi-Babri Masjid site is being heard by the Supreme Court.

PM Narendra Modi has courage, should bring ordinance to construct Ram temple: Uddhav Thackeray in Ayodhya 

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday met Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray to discuss the proposed cabinet expansion in the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-shiv-sena-to-fight-maharashtra-assembly-polls-in-135-seats-each-chandrakant-patil-223679"> state.</a>

Over the last few days, both Devendra Fadnavis and finance minister Sudhir Mungantiwar have said the ministry will be expanded.

After meeting Uddhav Thackeray, Devendra Fadnavis tweeted, "I met Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray at his residence Matoshri and discussed in the cabinet expansion in detail."

It is being speculated that the cabinet expansion could take place on Sunday, a day before the three-week monsoon session in Maharashtra.&nbsp;

Devendra Fadnavis had earlier met Governor C Vidyasagar Rao at Raj Bhavan. Currently, there are 37 ministers including Devendra Fadnavis in the Maharashtra cabinet.&nbsp;

Five more can be accommodated. A vacancy was created due to the death of BJP leader Pandurang Fundkar, then agriculture minister, in 2018.&nbsp;The portfolio is now being handled by revenue minister Chandrakant Patil.

Deepak Sawant, then health minister, resigned earlier this year and the department is being looked after by Eknath Shinde, who is also the PWD minister.

Parliamentary Affairs and Food and Civil Supplies Minister Girish Bapat resigned after being elected to the Lok Sabha from Pune. His portfolios are being shared by Education Minister Vinod Tawde and Tourism Minister Jaykumar Rawal.

While the BJP has 16 cabinet ministers and seven ministers of state (MoS), it's mainly all Shiv Sena has five cabinet ministers and only one MoS. Smaller allies have one cabinet and MoS post each.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday met Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray to discuss the proposed cabinet expansion in the state. Over the last few days, both Devendra Fadnavis and finance minister Sudhir Mungantiwar have said the ministry will be expanded.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Friday met Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray to discuss the proposed cabinet expansion in the state. Over the last few days, both Devendra Fadnavis and finance minister Sudhir Mungantiwar have said the ministry will be expanded. After meeting Uddhav Thackeray, Devendra Fadnavis tweeted, "I met Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray at his residence Matoshri and discussed in the cabinet expansion in detail." It is being speculated that the cabinet expansion could take place on Sunday, a day before the three-week monsoon session in Maharashtra. Devendra Fadnavis had earlier met Governor C Vidyasagar Rao at Raj Bhavan. Currently, there are 37 ministers including Devendra Fadnavis in the Maharashtra cabinet. Five more can be accommodated. A vacancy was created due to the death of BJP leader Pandurang Fundkar, then agriculture minister, in 2018. The portfolio is now being handled by revenue minister Chandrakant Patil. Deepak Sawant, then health minister, resigned earlier this year and the department is being looked after by Eknath Shinde, who is also the PWD minister. Parliamentary Affairs and Food and Civil Supplies Minister Girish Bapat resigned after being elected to the Lok Sabha from Pune. His portfolios are being shared by Education Minister Vinod Tawde and Tourism Minister Jaykumar Rawal. While the BJP has 16 cabinet ministers and seven ministers of state (MoS), it's mainly all Shiv Sena has five cabinet ministers and only one MoS. Smaller allies have one cabinet and MoS post each.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to discuss State cabinet expansion with Uddhav Thackeray

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will be attending the dinner hosted by Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah for NDA leaders on Tuesday. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar will also be attending the dinner today.&nbsp;

Other leaders who are likely to be present at the dinner tonight include Lok Jan Shakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswan and AIADMK leaders EK Palaniswamy and O Pannerselvam.&nbsp;

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The dinner is being hosted by the BJP chief for NDA allies in the national capital as a strategy session before the official results are declared on May 23.&nbsp;

The development comes just a couple of days after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/exit-polls-2019-pm-modi-returning-to-power-with-300-plus-seats-say-pollsters-219927">exit polls predicted</a> a landslide victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party in the Lok Sabha polls 2019. &nbsp;

Pollsters predicted the BJP and its allies to get a comfortable majority in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

The opposition parties dubbed the exit polls as wrong.&nbsp;

The seven-phased Lok Sabha polls were conducted from Aprill 11 to May 19. As many as 542 seats went to polls.

The counting of votes will be held on May 23, the result will be declared subsequently on the same day.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will be attending the dinner hosted by Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah for NDA leaders on Tuesday. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar will also be attending the dinner today.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will be attending the dinner hosted by Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah for NDA leaders on Tuesday. Bihar Chief Minister and JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar will also be attending the dinner today. Other leaders who are likely to be present at the dinner tonight include Lok Jan Shakti Party chief Ram Vilas Paswan and AIADMK leaders EK Palaniswamy and O Pannerselvam. Delhi: Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray to attend dinner hosted by Amit Shah for NDA leaders today (file pics) pic.twitter.com/Kj3zzrbPJp — ANI (@ANI) May 21, 2019 × The dinner is being hosted by the BJP chief for NDA allies in the national capital as a strategy session before the official results are declared on May 23. The development comes just a couple of days after the exit polls predicted a landslide victory for the Bharatiya Janata Party in the Lok Sabha polls 2019. Pollsters predicted the BJP and its allies to get a comfortable majority in the Lok Sabha elections. The opposition parties dubbed the exit polls as wrong. The seven-phased Lok Sabha polls were conducted from Aprill 11 to May 19. As many as 542 seats went to polls. The counting of votes will be held on May 23, the result will be declared subsequently on the same day.

Amit Shah to hold dinner for NDA allies today; Uddhav Thackeray, Nitish Kumar, Paswan to attend

Terming the United Nations' move of designating <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-issues-order-to-freeze-masood-azhars-assets-impose-travel-ban-215544&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjp19Sr-v7hAhWyjuYKHaxNDCUQFjAEegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1C5DmE00G8R7hLRhr6kweW">Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar</a> as a global terrorist a "diplomatic win" for India, the Shiv Sena Friday lashed out at the Congress for questioning its timing.

In an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', the party said there is no timing in the fight against terror.

The UN on Wednesday had designated Azhar as a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal to blacklist the Pakistan-based JeM chief, a decade after New Delhi approached the world body for the first time on the issue.

"Pakistan runs a factory of terrorism and Masood Azhar is its director...He is the number one enemy of India. He is the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terror organisation. He is not only responsible for the terror activities in Kashmir, but was also behind the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai," the Sena said.

"Breaking India into pieces is Azhar's dream. This satan was also behind the deadly Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 jawans. Although he claimed the responsibility for the attack, the Congress leaders and Modi opponents alleged that it was done for political gains ahead of the Lok Sabha elections," the Uddhav Thackeray-led party said.

It added that<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/opposition-not-celebrating-moment-of-great-pride-arun-jaitley-on-masood-azhar-listing-215319/amp&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwitu_Lw-v7hAhUcknAKHcYYBIY4ChAWMAV6BAgEEAI&amp;usg=AOvVaw3voq0i3jLLbwqXuSqL6naJ"> it was unfortunate that the Congress</a> even asked what did India gain by the UN's listing of Azhar as a "global terrorist".

"Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath went to the extent of questioning the timing of the UN move. There might be a fear in his mind that it may benefit Modi during the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. But he should ask the UN about its timing," the Sena said.

One should not think about the timing and emotions while dealing with terrorists, Sena&nbsp;added.

Terming the United Nations' move of designating Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist a "diplomatic win" for India, the Shiv Sena Friday lashed out at the Congress for questioning its timing.

Terming the United Nations' move of designating Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar as a global terrorist a "diplomatic win" for India, the Shiv Sena Friday lashed out at the Congress for questioning its timing. In an editorial in its mouthpiece 'Saamana', the party said there is no timing in the fight against terror. The UN on Wednesday had designated Azhar as a "global terrorist" after China lifted its hold on a proposal to blacklist the Pakistan-based JeM chief, a decade after New Delhi approached the world body for the first time on the issue. "Pakistan runs a factory of terrorism and Masood Azhar is its director...He is the number one enemy of India. He is the chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed, a Pakistan-based terror organisation. He is not only responsible for the terror activities in Kashmir, but was also behind the 26/11 attacks in Mumbai," the Sena said. "Breaking India into pieces is Azhar's dream. This satan was also behind the deadly Pulwama terror attack that killed 40 jawans. Although he claimed the responsibility for the attack, the Congress leaders and Modi opponents alleged that it was done for political gains ahead of the Lok Sabha elections," the Uddhav Thackeray-led party said. It added that it was unfortunate that the Congress even asked what did India gain by the UN's listing of Azhar as a "global terrorist". "Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath went to the extent of questioning the timing of the UN move. There might be a fear in his mind that it may benefit Modi during the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. But he should ask the UN about its timing," the Sena said. One should not think about the timing and emotions while dealing with terrorists, Sena added.

Shiv Sena slams Congress for questioning timing of JeM chief Masood Azhar's listing as a 'global terrorist'

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/poll-scam-money-used-for-naamdars-campaign-pm-modi-targets-rahul-gandhi-213678&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj4kYrc0e_hAhWKinAKHV5kBvUQFjAEegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw00WwceawnX5XDEzIFNFi8z">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

He addressed a rally at BKC ground here with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray ahead of April 29 polling for six seats in Mumbai and 11 seats elsewhere in Maharashtra.

"This election is not to find an alternative but to be decisive, to empower the poor and end terrorism. All opinion polls and surveys are unanimous in their finding that the BJP led NDA will return to power. The only point of discussion is the number of seats," Modi said.

"They (Opposition) are wondering why first-time voters and those who were born at the end of the 20th century are supporting Modi. It is because Modi is giving expression to their (new generation's) aspirations. They are looking forward to 2047 when India will celebrate its centenary of independence, but some people are stuck in the 20th century. They can't understand what the youth want," he said.

"Confusion is the other name of the Congress. If 2014 saw the worst performance of the Congress, in 2019 the party is going to create another record of contesting the least number of seats," the prime minister said.

"The situation for Congress is such that it remains to be seen whether it crosses the 50 mark," he said.

Congress governments neglected the police force and turned it into a "punching bag", he said, adding that had it not been for the alertness of Mumbai Police, who paid a heavy price including martyrdom, the city would have paid a greater price due to terror activities.

Modi's praise for police comes after BJP candidate and Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur's controversial statement about slain IPS officer Hemant Karkare.

"The Congress' attitude has been to change chief ministers and home ministers following terror attacks; we have changed that culture," he said.

Seeking to woo the middle class and Mumbai's working classes, Modi said fisherfolk, dabbawallahs (tiffin carriers), and drivers of "kali-pili" (black and yellow) taxies who ensure that Mumbai's speed never slackens need to be commended.

"It is because of the middle class and genuine taxpayers that this government has been able to work on infrastructure upgradation, Ayushman Bharat medical (insurance) scheme, and housing for all by 2022," he said.

The Congress manifesto has no mention of the middle class and some Congress leaders describe the middle class as selfish and greedy, the prime minister alleged.

"Telephone bills were once a huge part of expenses of the middle class. Due to efforts of our government, calling is almost free now and data is also among the cheapest in the world," Modi said.

The government works with 'Mumbai first' agenda, he said, mentioning bullet train project and promising that in the next few years, Mumbai will have 275 km of the metro network.

"During our rule, corruption has been dealt with severely, some people are in jail and some on bail. After the elections, they will be sent to jail. We have increased the number of taxpayers, not the taxes.

We have also increased the income tax (exemption) limit up to Rs five lakh. Today the middle class is saving more," the prime minister said.

Unlike in 2014, the price rise was not an election issue this time, Modi pointed out, saying that "inflation has been controlled at 4 per cent". "Development is high and inflation is low. This is a healthy condition," he added.

His government did a good job of financial management of the country while the Congress was concerned with its own finances and that of "one family", Modi said.

Referring to the Mumbai terror attacks, he also said that "terrorists now know that he (Modi) will find them even from hell and kill them if they attempt any such attack".

"I am Shivaji's `mavla' (soldier)," Modi said, invoking the Maratha warrior king. "Terrorists know that I will enter their homes and kill them," he added. 
Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, who addressed the rally earlier, said this was the third time he and Modi were campaigning together, while Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his ally, NCP chief Sharad Pawar had not come together.

"Rahul Gandhi doesn't feel the need to come here and Pawar doesn't want to share&nbsp;dais with him," Thackeray said.

Sena was with the Modi because only he can deal firmly with Pakistan, Uddhav said, adding that the Sena-BJP alliance was based on "a common maximum programme" of Ram temple, the abolition of Article 370 and development.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the opposition as "bears and wolves" who have taken along a "parrot" to defeat "the lion and the tiger".&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. He addressed a rally at BKC ground here with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray ahead of April 29 polling for six seats in Mumbai and 11 seats elsewhere in Maharashtra.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. He addressed a rally at BKC ground here with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray ahead of April 29 polling for six seats in Mumbai and 11 seats elsewhere in Maharashtra. "This election is not to find an alternative but to be decisive, to empower the poor and end terrorism. All opinion polls and surveys are unanimous in their finding that the BJP led NDA will return to power. The only point of discussion is the number of seats," Modi said. "They (Opposition) are wondering why first-time voters and those who were born at the end of the 20th century are supporting Modi. It is because Modi is giving expression to their (new generation's) aspirations. They are looking forward to 2047 when India will celebrate its centenary of independence, but some people are stuck in the 20th century. They can't understand what the youth want," he said. "Confusion is the other name of the Congress. If 2014 saw the worst performance of the Congress, in 2019 the party is going to create another record of contesting the least number of seats," the prime minister said. "The situation for Congress is such that it remains to be seen whether it crosses the 50 mark," he said. Congress governments neglected the police force and turned it into a "punching bag", he said, adding that had it not been for the alertness of Mumbai Police, who paid a heavy price including martyrdom, the city would have paid a greater price due to terror activities. Modi's praise for police comes after BJP candidate and Malegaon blast accused Pragya Thakur's controversial statement about slain IPS officer Hemant Karkare. "The Congress' attitude has been to change chief ministers and home ministers following terror attacks; we have changed that culture," he said. Seeking to woo the middle class and Mumbai's working classes, Modi said fisherfolk, dabbawallahs (tiffin carriers), and drivers of "kali-pili" (black and yellow) taxies who ensure that Mumbai's speed never slackens need to be commended. "It is because of the middle class and genuine taxpayers that this government has been able to work on infrastructure upgradation, Ayushman Bharat medical (insurance) scheme, and housing for all by 2022," he said. The Congress manifesto has no mention of the middle class and some Congress leaders describe the middle class as selfish and greedy, the prime minister alleged. "Telephone bills were once a huge part of expenses of the middle class. Due to efforts of our government, calling is almost free now and data is also among the cheapest in the world," Modi said. The government works with 'Mumbai first' agenda, he said, mentioning bullet train project and promising that in the next few years, Mumbai will have 275 km of the metro network. "During our rule, corruption has been dealt with severely, some people are in jail and some on bail. After the elections, they will be sent to jail. We have increased the number of taxpayers, not the taxes. We have also increased the income tax (exemption) limit up to Rs five lakh. Today the middle class is saving more," the prime minister said. Unlike in 2014, the price rise was not an election issue this time, Modi pointed out, saying that "inflation has been controlled at 4 per cent". "Development is high and inflation is low. This is a healthy condition," he added. His government did a good job of financial management of the country while the Congress was concerned with its own finances and that of "one family", Modi said. Referring to the Mumbai terror attacks, he also said that "terrorists now know that he (Modi) will find them even from hell and kill them if they attempt any such attack". "I am Shivaji's `mavla' (soldier)," Modi said, invoking the Maratha warrior king. "Terrorists know that I will enter their homes and kill them," he added. Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, who addressed the rally earlier, said this was the third time he and Modi were campaigning together, while Congress president Rahul Gandhi and his ally, NCP chief Sharad Pawar had not come together. "Rahul Gandhi doesn't feel the need to come here and Pawar doesn't want to share dais with him," Thackeray said. Sena was with the Modi because only he can deal firmly with Pakistan, Uddhav said, adding that the Sena-BJP alliance was based on "a common maximum programme" of Ram temple, the abolition of Article 370 and development. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis described the opposition as "bears and wolves" who have taken along a "parrot" to defeat "the lion and the tiger".

Congress may not get even 50 seats: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

Speaking at an election rally here along with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, Modi cited a survey to support his claim.

"Dont waste your vote. Better to vote for a party that is coming to power and you can strengthen it with your vote," Modi said.&nbsp;

"The only question now is if the BJP will better its own 2014 tally," he added.

Modi also attacked the Congress for neglecting the police forces force and turning it into a "punching bag" while the party was in power.

Modi's attack on the opposition party came in the backdrop of a raging controversy over BJP candidate Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's remarks about 26/11 Mumbai terror attack martyr police officer Hemant Karkare.

Had it not been for the alertness of Mumbai Police, who have paid a heavy price including martyrdom, the city would have paid a heavier price due to terror activities, he said.

"The Congress attitude has been to change chief ministers and home ministers following terror attacks; we have changed that culture," Modi said.

The Congress did not do anything for the security forces, Modi said and underlined his government's decision to build a police memorial in New Delhi.

Modi told the crowd that the Congress insulted them by calling the middle class as selfish and greedy. He underlined the contributions of the middle class and his government's initiatives for it.

"Telephone bills were once a huge part in the list of expenses of the middle class. Due to efforts of our government, calling is almost free now and data is also among the cheapest in the world," Modi said.

The government works with 'Mumbai first' agenda and the changes are there to see with work on bullet trains and metro network in progress, he said.

In the next few years, Mumbai will have 275 km of metro network, Modi said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Speaking at an election rally here along with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, Modi cited a survey to support his claim.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday claimed that the Congress won't get even 50 seats in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Speaking at an election rally here along with Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray, Modi cited a survey to support his claim. "Dont waste your vote. Better to vote for a party that is coming to power and you can strengthen it with your vote," Modi said. "The only question now is if the BJP will better its own 2014 tally," he added. Modi also attacked the Congress for neglecting the police forces force and turning it into a "punching bag" while the party was in power. Modi's attack on the opposition party came in the backdrop of a raging controversy over BJP candidate Sadhvi Pragya Singh Thakur's remarks about 26/11 Mumbai terror attack martyr police officer Hemant Karkare. Had it not been for the alertness of Mumbai Police, who have paid a heavy price including martyrdom, the city would have paid a heavier price due to terror activities, he said. "The Congress attitude has been to change chief ministers and home ministers following terror attacks; we have changed that culture," Modi said. The Congress did not do anything for the security forces, Modi said and underlined his government's decision to build a police memorial in New Delhi. Modi told the crowd that the Congress insulted them by calling the middle class as selfish and greedy. He underlined the contributions of the middle class and his government's initiatives for it. "Telephone bills were once a huge part in the list of expenses of the middle class. Due to efforts of our government, calling is almost free now and data is also among the cheapest in the world," Modi said. The government works with 'Mumbai first' agenda and the changes are there to see with work on bullet trains and metro network in progress, he said. In the next few years, Mumbai will have 275 km of metro network, Modi said.

Congress won't get even 50 seats, says Modi in Mumbai

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/wanted-a-pm-who-can-attack-pakistan-uddhav-thackeray-on-alliance-with-bjp-211968">Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray</a> said Thursday that Opposition parties, which do not even have a prime ministerial candidate, are making tall promises.

He was addressing a rally at Chakan near Pune for Shiv Sena MP and candidate from Shirur Lok Sabha seat Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil.

"We have a strong PM candidate in Narendra Modi. But if you ask them (Opposition) who is your PM candidate, they say first give us votes and we will see later.

"Today they do not have PM candidate and these people talk about improving the condition of the country...First go and search for a leader," the Sena chief said.

"Everyone in Opposition's alliance wants to sit in the PM's chair, but this is not a game of musical chairs," he quipped.

Adhalrao Patil has a connection with the people of his constituency and he will win a fourth term with a bigger margin, Thackeray said.

In a dig at actor Dr Amol Kolhe, who quit the Sena ahead of the polls and has been fielded by the NCP in Shirur, Thackeray asked people whether they wanted an MP who works for the constituency or someone who works in TV serials.

On the bickering between the BJP and Shiv Sena, who are nevertheless contesting the elections together, Thackeray said he formed the alliance with the BJP for the sake of well-being of farmers and other sections of society.

"The tiffs between the Sena and BJP were sour and sweet," he said.

The Sena chief also said that "one should not make capital out of the valour of our Armed Forces", nor should anyone question the surgical strike and the air strike conducted by the forces after the Uri and Pulwama terror attacks.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray said Thursday that Opposition parties, which do not even have a prime ministerial candidate, are making tall promises. He was addressing a rally at Chakan near Pune for Shiv Sena MP and candidate from Shirur Lok Sabha seat Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil.

Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray said Thursday that Opposition parties, which do not even have a prime ministerial candidate, are making tall promises. He was addressing a rally at Chakan near Pune for Shiv Sena MP and candidate from Shirur Lok Sabha seat Shivajirao Adhalrao Patil. "We have a strong PM candidate in Narendra Modi. But if you ask them (Opposition) who is your PM candidate, they say first give us votes and we will see later. "Today they do not have PM candidate and these people talk about improving the condition of the country...First go and search for a leader," the Sena chief said. "Everyone in Opposition's alliance wants to sit in the PM's chair, but this is not a game of musical chairs," he quipped. Adhalrao Patil has a connection with the people of his constituency and he will win a fourth term with a bigger margin, Thackeray said. In a dig at actor Dr Amol Kolhe, who quit the Sena ahead of the polls and has been fielded by the NCP in Shirur, Thackeray asked people whether they wanted an MP who works for the constituency or someone who works in TV serials. On the bickering between the BJP and Shiv Sena, who are nevertheless contesting the elections together, Thackeray said he formed the alliance with the BJP for the sake of well-being of farmers and other sections of society. "The tiffs between the Sena and BJP were sour and sweet," he said. The Sena chief also said that "one should not make capital out of the valour of our Armed Forces", nor should anyone question the surgical strike and the air strike conducted by the forces after the Uri and Pulwama terror attacks.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Opposition parties should find a leader first, says Uddhav Thackeray

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said that his party went into an alliance with the BJP because he wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan.

"Shiv Sena wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan and so we went into an alliance with BJP," said Thackeray while addressing a public rally in Aurangabad.

Slamming the Congress party on its stance on Article 370, he said, "All laws in Kashmir should be on par with the rest of India. Congress does not want to abolish Article 370, while leaders like Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have said that if Article 370 is abolished there will be no one to respect the tricolor."

Thackeray also came down heavily on former JNU Students Union president Kanhaiya Kumar who is contesting on a CPI ticket from Begusarai in Bihar.

"People like Kanhaiya Kumar preparing to enter Lok Sabha is very sad, he is a separatist," he said.

Hitting out at NCP chief Sharad Pawar`s statements on Shiv Sena`s pre-poll pact with BJP, Thackeray said, "Sharad Pawar left Congress abusing Rajiv Gandhi and pledged that he would never join Congress till the end. He is black at heart. Pawar later joined Congress. How can such a man say that the alliance of Shiv Sena and BJP is not fair?"

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said that his party went into an alliance with the BJP because he wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan. "Shiv Sena wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan and so we went into an alliance with BJP," said Thackeray while addressing a public rally in Aurangabad.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday said that his party went into an alliance with the BJP because he wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan. "Shiv Sena wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan and so we went into an alliance with BJP," said Thackeray while addressing a public rally in Aurangabad. Slamming the Congress party on its stance on Article 370, he said, "All laws in Kashmir should be on par with the rest of India. Congress does not want to abolish Article 370, while leaders like Farooq Abdullah and Mehbooba Mufti have said that if Article 370 is abolished there will be no one to respect the tricolor." Thackeray also came down heavily on former JNU Students Union president Kanhaiya Kumar who is contesting on a CPI ticket from Begusarai in Bihar. "People like Kanhaiya Kumar preparing to enter Lok Sabha is very sad, he is a separatist," he said. Hitting out at NCP chief Sharad Pawar`s statements on Shiv Sena`s pre-poll pact with BJP, Thackeray said, "Sharad Pawar left Congress abusing Rajiv Gandhi and pledged that he would never join Congress till the end. He is black at heart. Pawar later joined Congress. How can such a man say that the alliance of Shiv Sena and BJP is not fair?"

Wanted a Prime Minister who can attack Pakistan: Uddhav Thackeray on alliance with BJP

Hours after quitting Congress party as its national spokesperson, Priyanka Chaturvedi on Friday joined Shiv Sena in the presence of party chief Uddhav Thackeray at Matoshree in Mumbai.

She <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/priyanka-chaturvedi-resigns-from-congress-after-lashing-out-at-party-over-goons-211701">quit the Congress</a> party after nearly a decade.&nbsp;

Chaturvedi's resignation from Congress came minutes after she removed her designation as the party's official spokesperson from her official Twitter handle.&nbsp;

After joining Shiv Sena she said had taken the decision after a lot of thought.&nbsp;

''I know I will be held accountable for my past statements and my views but I would like to say that I have taken the decision of joining Shiv Sena taken after a lot of thought,'' she added.&nbsp;

Chaturvedi had joined the Congress in 2010 and was made the party's spokesperson in 2013.

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I am absolutely overwhelmed and grateful with the love and support I have got across board from the nation in the past 3 days. 
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She quit the party's official WhatsApp media group on Friday morning. Sources said that she was upset for not being nominated from Mumbai for the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Chaturvedi had lashed out at Congress in public for reinstating party workers who were accused of misbehaving with her in September, 2018.

In a tweet on Wednesday, she accused the Congress of giving preference to "lumpen goons" over those who had given their "sweat and blood" to the party.

Hours after quitting Congress party as its national spokesperson, Priyanka Chaturvedi on Friday joined Shiv Sena in the presence of party chief Uddhav Thackeray at Matoshree in Mumbai.

Hours after quitting Congress party as its national spokesperson, Priyanka Chaturvedi on Friday joined Shiv Sena in the presence of party chief Uddhav Thackeray at Matoshree in Mumbai. She quit the Congress party after nearly a decade. Chaturvedi's resignation from Congress came minutes after she removed her designation as the party's official spokesperson from her official Twitter handle. After joining Shiv Sena she said had taken the decision after a lot of thought. ''I know I will be held accountable for my past statements and my views but I would like to say that I have taken the decision of joining Shiv Sena taken after a lot of thought,'' she added. Chaturvedi had joined the Congress in 2010 and was made the party's spokesperson in 2013. I am absolutely overwhelmed and grateful with the love and support I have got across board from the nation in the past 3 days. I consider myself blessed with this immense outpouring of support. Thank you to all who have been a part of this journey. pic.twitter.com/WhUYYlwHLj — Priyanka Chaturvedi (@priyankac19) April 19, 2019 × She quit the party's official WhatsApp media group on Friday morning. Sources said that she was upset for not being nominated from Mumbai for the Lok Sabha elections. Earlier this week, Chaturvedi had lashed out at Congress in public for reinstating party workers who were accused of misbehaving with her in September, 2018. In a tweet on Wednesday, she accused the Congress of giving preference to "lumpen goons" over those who had given their "sweat and blood" to the party.

Priyanka Chaturvedi joins Shiv Sena hours after quitting Congress 

Slamming Congress president Rahul Gandhi over his poll promises, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday claimed only the Gandhi family's poverty had been eradicated since the slogan 'garibi hatao' was first coined.

Addressing a poll rally here, Thackeray said the 'garibi hatao' (banish poverty) slogan was coined by the Congress chief's grandmother (then Prime Minister) Indira Gandhi and thereafter, only the poverty of his family had been eradicated and not of people.

"You have fooled people once. Don't do it again... Rahul Gandhi says Article 370 will not be touched...Will you give the reigns of the nation to such people?" he asked.

Thackeray said the Congress chief called Veer Savarkar a "coward", adding that had former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru "endured" what Savarkar had to, he would have called Nehru "courageous".

Slamming the NCP for criticising him for accompanying BJP chief Amit Shah at a gathering when the latter filed his nomination papers, Thackeray said it was the same party that had tried to sneak into the (BJP-led) government fearing Sena's entry after 2014 Maharashtra Assembly polls.

The Sena chief further said late party patriarch Bal Thackeray made Congress nominee Milind Deora's father (Murli Deora) Mumbai mayor, otherwise, people would not even have known the family.

Deora is contesting from the Mumbai South Lok Sabha seat where he is pitted against Sena's sitting MP Arvind Sawant.&nbsp;

Slamming Congress president Rahul Gandhi over his poll promises, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday claimed only the Gandhi family's poverty had been eradicated since the slogan 'garibi hatao' was first coined.

Slamming Congress president Rahul Gandhi over his poll promises, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday claimed only the Gandhi family's poverty had been eradicated since the slogan 'garibi hatao' was first coined. Addressing a poll rally here, Thackeray said the 'garibi hatao' (banish poverty) slogan was coined by the Congress chief's grandmother (then Prime Minister) Indira Gandhi and thereafter, only the poverty of his family had been eradicated and not of people. "You have fooled people once. Don't do it again... Rahul Gandhi says Article 370 will not be touched...Will you give the reigns of the nation to such people?" he asked. Thackeray said the Congress chief called Veer Savarkar a "coward", adding that had former Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru "endured" what Savarkar had to, he would have called Nehru "courageous". Slamming the NCP for criticising him for accompanying BJP chief Amit Shah at a gathering when the latter filed his nomination papers, Thackeray said it was the same party that had tried to sneak into the (BJP-led) government fearing Sena's entry after 2014 Maharashtra Assembly polls. The Sena chief further said late party patriarch Bal Thackeray made Congress nominee Milind Deora's father (Murli Deora) Mumbai mayor, otherwise, people would not even have known the family. Deora is contesting from the Mumbai South Lok Sabha seat where he is pitted against Sena's sitting MP Arvind Sawant.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: Uddhav Thackeray slams Rahul over poll promises

PM Modi and Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray addressed a poll rally in Latur in Maharashtra on Tuesday as both leaders lashed out at Pakistan.

"Had pre-Independence Congress leaders acted wisely, 'this Pakistan' would not have been created, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nationalism-our-inspiration-good-governance-our-mantra-says-pm-modi-as-bjp-unveils-election-manifesto-208728">PM Modi said at the rally</a>, adding, "Congress is responsible for the creation of Pakistan."

"Congress manifesto and Pakistan speak same language on Kashmir-related issues,"&nbsp;the PM said.

Latur will be voting in the second phase of elections on April 18th.

The prime minister told the people present at the venue that one of the key aims of his government was to rid India of Naxals.

"Those who talk of a separate prime minister and secession of J&amp;K are the ones on whom the nation had trusted once. The country can now understand who governed J&amp;K for decades, and who they actually served. The thoughts in their hearts are now in the open."

"Congress and NCP are now standing with those who advocate for a separate PM in J&amp;K. Sharad Pawarji, you are standing with such people! The country has no expectations with the Congress party but Sharadji&nbsp;you? Does it suit you?&nbsp;he asked.

"How much evidence do Congress leaders want to prove India downed Pak aircraft,"&nbsp;the prime minister asked. 
&nbsp; 
"We didn't talk of air strike in the&nbsp;manifesto, but carried it out when warranted,"&nbsp;he said.

"Can your first vote be dedicated to those who carried out air strike,"&nbsp;PM Modi asked the first-time voters.

Speaking at the event, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said: "Deal Pak such a blow that nothing of it remains."

PM Modi and Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray addressed a poll rally in Latur in Maharashtra on Tuesday as both leaders lashed out at Pakistan. "Had pre-Independence Congress leaders acted wisely, 'this Pakistan' would not have been created, PM Modi said at the rally, adding, "Congress is responsible for the creation of Pakistan.

PM Modi and Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray addressed a poll rally in Latur in Maharashtra on Tuesday as both leaders lashed out at Pakistan. "Had pre-Independence Congress leaders acted wisely, 'this Pakistan' would not have been created, PM Modi said at the rally, adding, "Congress is responsible for the creation of Pakistan." "Congress manifesto and Pakistan speak same language on Kashmir-related issues," the PM said. Latur will be voting in the second phase of elections on April 18th. The prime minister told the people present at the venue that one of the key aims of his government was to rid India of Naxals. "Those who talk of a separate prime minister and secession of J&K are the ones on whom the nation had trusted once. The country can now understand who governed J&K for decades, and who they actually served. The thoughts in their hearts are now in the open." "Congress and NCP are now standing with those who advocate for a separate PM in J&K. Sharad Pawarji, you are standing with such people! The country has no expectations with the Congress party but Sharadji you? Does it suit you? he asked. "How much evidence do Congress leaders want to prove India downed Pak aircraft," the prime minister asked. "We didn't talk of air strike in the manifesto, but carried it out when warranted," he said. "Can your first vote be dedicated to those who carried out air strike," PM Modi asked the first-time voters. Speaking at the event, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray said: "Deal Pak such a blow that nothing of it remains."

Congress manifesto, Pak speak same language on Kashmir-related issues, says PM Modi in Latur

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray Tuesday asked <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-manifesto-pak-speak-same-language-on-kashmir-related-issues-says-pm-modi-in-latur-208954">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> to deal Pakistan such a blow that nothing remains of it to mess with India.

Addressing a poll rally in Maharashtra with Modi, their first since the Shiv Sena and BJP announced their tie-up for the Lok Sabha polls, Thackeray also welcomed the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/national-security-is-bjps-sankalp-as-party-manifesto-vows-to-repeal-articles-370-35a-and-end-left-wing-extremism-208930">BJP's manifesto</a>.

He said the promises made in the BJP manifesto was the reason the two ruling parties joined forces ahead of the polls.

In the manifesto released Monday, the BJP has reiterated its commitment towards the construction of Ram temple and abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution. It also announced a welfare scheme for farmers if voted to power.

Our government today doesn't just talk about teaching Pakistan a lesson," Thackeray said.

"Pradhan Mantri ji, our only expectation from you now is that deal Pakistan such a blow that nothing of it remains to mess (with India) again," he said.

Thackeray also attacked the Congress for alleging that the BJP manifesto repeated the NDA major's 2014 poll promises. The Sena chief said it was the Congress manifesto which was filled with lies.

He criticised Congress's 'Nyay' scheme that aims to help the poor by ensuring minimum income guarantee.

"Rahul (Gandhi) ji, the poverty eradication slogan was given by your grandmother (late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi). Your poverty vanished, but when the poverty of the poor will disappear? We will do it," Thackeray said.

On the Prime Minister's Crop Insurance Scheme, Thackeray said companies were cheating farmers and asked Modi to "straighten them".

"The insurance companies should have offices in each district (for the convenience of farmers)," he said.

In his speech, Modi called Uddhav his 'younger brother' and recalled that the Congress had 'withdrawn' citizenship of late Bal Thackeray.

Union minister Ramdas Athawale and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also addressed the rally.

BJP-Sena alliance candidates from Latur and Osmanabad Lok Sabha seats were also present.&nbsp;

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray Tuesday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deal Pakistan such a blow that nothing remains of it to mess with India. Addressing a poll rally in Maharashtra with Modi, their first since the Shiv Sena and BJP announced their tie-up for the Lok Sabha polls, Thackeray also welcomed the BJP's manifesto.

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray Tuesday asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deal Pakistan such a blow that nothing remains of it to mess with India. Addressing a poll rally in Maharashtra with Modi, their first since the Shiv Sena and BJP announced their tie-up for the Lok Sabha polls, Thackeray also welcomed the BJP's manifesto. He said the promises made in the BJP manifesto was the reason the two ruling parties joined forces ahead of the polls. In the manifesto released Monday, the BJP has reiterated its commitment towards the construction of Ram temple and abrogation of Article 370 of the Constitution. It also announced a welfare scheme for farmers if voted to power. Our government today doesn't just talk about teaching Pakistan a lesson," Thackeray said. "Pradhan Mantri ji, our only expectation from you now is that deal Pakistan such a blow that nothing of it remains to mess (with India) again," he said. Thackeray also attacked the Congress for alleging that the BJP manifesto repeated the NDA major's 2014 poll promises. The Sena chief said it was the Congress manifesto which was filled with lies. He criticised Congress's 'Nyay' scheme that aims to help the poor by ensuring minimum income guarantee. "Rahul (Gandhi) ji, the poverty eradication slogan was given by your grandmother (late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi). Your poverty vanished, but when the poverty of the poor will disappear? We will do it," Thackeray said. On the Prime Minister's Crop Insurance Scheme, Thackeray said companies were cheating farmers and asked Modi to "straighten them". "The insurance companies should have offices in each district (for the convenience of farmers)," he said. In his speech, Modi called Uddhav his 'younger brother' and recalled that the Congress had 'withdrawn' citizenship of late Bal Thackeray. Union minister Ramdas Athawale and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also addressed the rally. BJP-Sena alliance candidates from Latur and Osmanabad Lok Sabha seats were also present.

Deal Pakistan such a blow that nothing of it remains: Uddhav Thackeray

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will share the stage at a rally in Maharashtra on Tuesday for the first time after the tie-up of their parties for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

The two leaders will address a public gathering at Ausa in Latur in support of the alliance candidates in that district and Osmanabad, where polling will be held on April 18, BJP spokesman Keshav Upadhyay said on Sunday.

Modi and Thackeray last shared the dais in Mumbai in December 2016 at a function to lay the foundation stone of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj memorial off the Arabian Sea.

On Saturday, Modi addressed a rally in Nanded, where state Congress president and former chief minister Ashok Chavan is contesting against BJP's Pratap Chikhalikar.

The Sena, which has often been critical of the BJP and policies of the NDA government, entered into a seat-sharing pact with it recently after the ruling party's president, Amit Shah, visited Thackeray at his residence here.

The BJP and Sena announced to contest 25 and 23 seats, respectively, in Maharashtra which has 48 Lok Sabha constituencies.

Earlier, the two parties went separate ways after the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and contested the Maharashtra Assembly elections held later that year on their own.

The BJP-led government under the leadership of Devendra Fadnavis took charge in the state in October 2014 and the Shiv Sena joined it in December that year.

Polling for the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra will be held in four phases on April 11, 18, 23 and 29, and the results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will share the stage at a rally in Maharashtra on Tuesday for the first time after the tie-up of their parties for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray will share the stage at a rally in Maharashtra on Tuesday for the first time after the tie-up of their parties for the upcoming Lok Sabha polls. The two leaders will address a public gathering at Ausa in Latur in support of the alliance candidates in that district and Osmanabad, where polling will be held on April 18, BJP spokesman Keshav Upadhyay said on Sunday. Modi and Thackeray last shared the dais in Mumbai in December 2016 at a function to lay the foundation stone of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj memorial off the Arabian Sea. On Saturday, Modi addressed a rally in Nanded, where state Congress president and former chief minister Ashok Chavan is contesting against BJP's Pratap Chikhalikar. The Sena, which has often been critical of the BJP and policies of the NDA government, entered into a seat-sharing pact with it recently after the ruling party's president, Amit Shah, visited Thackeray at his residence here. The BJP and Sena announced to contest 25 and 23 seats, respectively, in Maharashtra which has 48 Lok Sabha constituencies. Earlier, the two parties went separate ways after the 2014 Lok Sabha polls and contested the Maharashtra Assembly elections held later that year on their own. The BJP-led government under the leadership of Devendra Fadnavis took charge in the state in October 2014 and the Shiv Sena joined it in December that year. Polling for the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra will be held in four phases on April 11, 18, 23 and 29, and the results will be declared on May 23.

Modi, Thackeray to share dais at Lok Sabha poll rally in Maharashtra's Latur

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