Maha Crisis: Shiv Sena’s Arvind Sawant Announces Resignation From Modi Govt

The bitter split between the BJP and Shiv Sena took another turn as Arvind Sawant, senior Sena leader and Union Minister in Narendra Modi government, announced his resignation on Monday morning. Many are viewing this as Shiv Sena accepting the NCP’s demand of severing ties from the NDA before forming the government in Maharashtra. In two tweets written in Marathi, Sawant said that Shiv Sena is saying the truth. Going by his party line, Sawant said that it is of no use to stay in such an environment in Delhi – a clear remark at the trust deficit between two parties. He said that was the very reason why he was resigning as the Union Minister.

In another tweet, Sawant reiterated for the 50:50 formula and said that both parties had agreed upon it. He added that by denying such an agreement, the BJP has caused deep agony and hurt the pride of Shiv Sena. While announcing his resignation, Sawant said that he will hold a press conference in Delhi later in the day to talk about his decision. 

On Sunday, NSP’ chief spokesperson Nawab Malik had said that the Shiv Sena would have to break away from the BJP-led NDA before the NCP can think of lending support to the Uddhav Thackeray-led party for government formation. "Shiv Sena needs to first exit from the NDA as it has one cabinet post (in the Narendra Modi government). Unless it leaves the NDA, we will wait and watch the developments," NCP chief spokesperson Nawab Malik told reporters on Sunday evening. Less than 24 hours later, Sawant has announced his resignation. Malik also said that NCP MLAs will meet on November 12 after which a final decision on the party's role in the current scenario will be taken.