Maharashtra: Two Independent MLAs meet Uddhav Thackeray, Extend Support To Shiv Sena

After meeting Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday, two independent MLAs including Ashish Jaiswal and Narendra Bhondekar extended their support to the party. Both legislators said that they fought as independent candidates, but are with the Shiv Sena. 

It is to be noted that Ashish Jaiswal won Ramtek constituency in Nagpur as an independent. On the other hand, Narendra Bhondekar secured the Bhandara constituency as an independent. He defeated BJP’s Arvind Manohar Bhaladhare by 23677 votes. 

Meanwhile, a post-election tussle between the BJP and its ally Shiv Sena continues over the formation of the new Maharashtra government. The two parties, who contested the Maharashtra Assembly elections together and bagged 161 seats in the 288-member house, are believed to have dispute over distribution of portfolios. Whereas, the Congress-NCP alliance has won 102 seats in Maharashtra despite Congress chief Sonia Gandhi not addressing a rally in the state.

Shiv Sena, which won 56 seats to the BJP's 105, has even hinted at the Chief Minister's post, suggesting a two-and-a-half year rotation between the parties. Ina press conference held on October 24, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray demanded the BJP to honour the 50:50 agreement made during his meeting with Amit Shah earlier this year." “Shiv Sena contested less seats on BJP's request; we can't be so accommodating always," he had said.

RELATED