Maharashtra: BJP, Shiv Sena yet to decide on post-poll alliance

NEW DELHI: With BJP emerging the single largest party in Maharashtra Assembly polls, key political parties were in a huddle on Monday to discuss options for alliance and government formation.

Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray held a crucial meet the party headquarters to decide on options post poll results. Meanwhile, BJP President Amit Shah also met Union Minister Nitin Gadkari in the capital to discuss future strategy for Maharashtra.

BJP has made it clear that it will be going ahead with formation of government in Maharashtra. "As per norms of democracy, the largest party has the right to form the government. BJP will be forming the government in Maharashtra," Shah had said on Sunday.

On Sunday, BJP discussed the party's strategy ahead at a meeting of the Parliamentary Board, its highest decision-making body.

Sources also told PTI that BJP is not averse to taking back its old ally Shiv Sena in its government in Maharashtra. A consensus appears to have been reached on taking back the Shiv Sena in its fold to form a stable government in the state.

Insiders say the RSS also wants that all Hindutva forces should remain united for the long term.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena took a swipe at Narendra Modi, saying the "wave" seen during the campaign lost its force even before reaching the shores and expressed doubts over survival of the state amid a hung House.

BJP, Congress and NCP benefited from multi-cornered contests in the elections, the Sena said and asked the voters if they are happy with the fractured verdict.

(With inputs from PTI)