The dates for the Maharashtra assembly elections have been announced, yet the dilemma of seat-sharing between Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar) remains unresolved. Addressing the seat-sharing predicament, Shiv Sena (UBT) spokesperson Sanjay Raut made a statement on Friday, asserting that Maharashtra Congress leaders lack decision-making capability. He criticized the persistent need for Congress leaders to send lists to Delhi for discussion, emphasizing that time is running out. Sanjay Raut now seeks direct dialogue with Congress' top brass to address seat-sharing issues.
Sanjay Raut mentioned that discussions were held with Mukul Wasnik, and a conversation with Rahul Gandhi is scheduled to take place today. They aim to resolve decisions on the conflicted seats swiftly. Raut noted minimal differences with NCP and none with Congress, except for a few seats contested by all three parties. Discussions have been conducted with Congress leaders in Delhi, and updates have been shared with party chief Uddhav Thackeray.
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Raut shared that directives from Uddhav Thackeray have been received and will be followed. He expressed optimism in resolving the matter. On being questioned about Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole's stubborn stance, Raut insisted that no such attitude is maintained with Shiv Sena —this is Shiv Sena. Patole is considered an ally, and differences will be reconciled. In response to Raut's statements, comments from Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole and spokesperson Pawan Khera surfaced.
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Reacting, Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole remarked that while Sanjay Raut's leader is Uddhav Thackeray, their leader is Rahul Gandhi, and NCP's leader is Sharad Pawar. Updates on seat-sharing are provided to Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge. Subtly questioning Raut's decisions, Pawan Khera commented that speed bumps occur during seat-sharing discussions, but dialogue is the key to resolving issues.
BJP Takes a Dig at Uddhav
In a jibe at Sanjay Raut's remarks concerning seat-sharing in the MVA, Maharashtra BJP President Chandrashekhar Bawankule sharply criticized Uddhav Thackeray. He reminisced that discussions previously took place at Matoshree but now, Thackeray is perceived as begging before alliance leaders. Bawankule credited the late Bal Thackeray for empowering BJP and Shiv Sena, lamenting Sharad Pawar's role in distancing Shiv Sena from BJP. It's noteworthy that voting for Maharashtra's 288 assembly seats will occur in a single phase on November 20, with results declared on November 23.
