Cabinet will ask governor to accept Shreehari Aney's resignation: Maha CM Devendra Fadnavis

MUMBAI: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today said the government would ask the Governor to accept the resignation of Advocate General Shreehari Aney, who put in his papers in the backdrop of the controversy generated over his espousal of separate Marathwada state.

"Shreehari Aney has made some statements which are not in accordance with the state government's stand. He has given his clarification to the government. Also, Aney has submitted his resignation to the Governor and as per procedure, he is taking cognisance of the same," Fadnavis said while making a joint statement in both Houses of the state Legislature.

Leader of Opposition in the Legislative Assembly, Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil then asked if Aney's resignation has been accepted as the AG had made statements that were "intended at breaking the state."

"What he said is wrong. He should apologise to the House for making such statements," he said.

Responding to Vikhe Patil, Fadnavis asked the Opposition to remain serious on the issue.

"According to Constitutional provisions, he has been appointed by the Governor. Opposition should remain serious on the issue. According to protocol, the Governor will ask for an opinion from the government. We will take the decision in the Cabinet and convey to the Governor that his resignation be accepted," the CM said.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena legislators staged a dharna at the main entrance of Vidhan Bhavan shouting slogans demanding Aney be tried under the "sedition" charge.

Following the Chief Minister's statement, the Sena members and ministers, who had earlier announced they would not take part in House proceedings and attend Cabinet meetings, later joined the proceedings during Question Hour.