Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and MP Sanjay Raut claimed that if Nana Patole had not resigned as Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, the Uddhav Thackeray-led MVA government would not have fallen. Nana Patole in his response hit back at the ally by questioning the Shiv Sena leadership.
The tussle between the two allies has now raised doubts about whether all is well in the alliance or not.
“You are saying that if I had not resigned, the government would not have fallen. Does this mean that there was something lacking in your leadership?” Congress Maharashtra chief Nana Patole asked Raut.
“I thank Sanjay Raut for considering me so powerful. ‘If I had been there, the Khoke government (in reference to allegations of Shinde faction leaders taking money to switch sides) would not have come to power, and the MVA government Would have.” He has made people aware of my power,” Patole said in a swipe at the aide.
“I had constitutional rights. But his party leaders did nothing during the crisis. Just because Raut has raised these questions, it will not solve problems like inflation, unemployment and farmers’ problems. Should pay attention.” Patole said.
Patole said, “We can only take on the BJP by raising state issues. I can only advise Raut. I am not an expert.”
Responding to the issue of resigning from the post of Speaker, Patole said, “It was Sonia Gandhi’s decision to make me Speaker. The decision to resign as Speaker was also taken by Sonia Gandhi. It is my duty.” To carry out the orders given by the party. It is not right if someone is questioning the decision taken by the high command,” Patole said.
State in-charge HK Patil will come on the tour tomorrow. He will take stock of the ‘Hath Se Hath Jodo’ campaign. There is no difference in Congress. BJP is trying to defame Congress. Patole said, they are angry with the results of the MLC elections.
Patole also said that he would not attend the meeting with in-charge HK Patil.
“I have had a conversation with Patil. I am going to Pune for elections and hence I will not be able to attend the meeting. I have informed senior party leaders about it,” he said.