MSP chief Narayan Rane dares Shiv Sena to quit BJP government in Maharashtra

A day after the Shiv Sena announced its distance from the BJP, Swabhimani Paksha chief Narayan Rane on Friday dared the Uddhav Thackeray-led party to exit from the BJP-led NDA government in Maharashtra.

"You talk about fighting polls without an alliance (with the BJP). Then why do you not let go of power? You criticise your ally while being part of the government. Contesting elections separately does not befit the Sena," Rane said, addressing his party workers in suburban Bandra. 

Rane, who was former CM of the state said there were several issues plaguing the state but no political party was tackling them, hence, he had to form his own political party.

The RS member questioned if the Sena was formed for the welfare of Marathi-speaking individuals, why did the percentage of such people decrease in Mumbai.

Also Read | Shiv Sena part ways with BJP, says will contest all upcoming elections alone

"Marathi people gave everything to the Sena but what did the party give back to them?" he questioned.

"If the entire responsibility of governance is on the BJP, are you just there to sit and eat? he asked. 

Also, attacking the Congress, Rane said the party did not fulfil the promises it had made to the people.

Also Read | Retaining allies crucial, but how far will the BJP go to accommodate them?

"I left the Congress because they kept making promises to me. After I quit the party, I had offers from parties including the Sena. However, I realised I had to form my own party if I wanted to give justice to my (party) workers," Rane said as he exhorted his workers to start preparations for the 2019 Lok Sabha election.