Cong-NCP leaders to meet soon; talks with Sena only after CMP is vetted by high command

As per sources, top leaders of the Congress and NCP are expected to meet in the national capital in one or two days' time. They are likely to give a final shape to the Common Minimum Programme (CMP) of both parties. Sources reveal that as soon as the final draft of the CMP is approved by the high command of both parties, discussions with the Shiv Sena would be held. Earlier on Tuesday, Congress president Sonia Gandhi had reportedly asked leaders such as AK Antony, Ahmed Patel, and Mallikarjun Kharge to ensure that a Karnataka-like fiasco does not happen in Maharashtra.  

Read: Maharashtra: Where There’s One Chair And No Music

Read: Maharashtra Will Get A Stable Govt Led Under Shiv Sena Soon: Sanjay Raut

'No talk of government formation'

Addressing the media after meeting the Congress president on Monday, NCP supremo Sharad Pawar seemed to make a U-turn on the alliance with the Sena. He stated that the question of government formation was not discussed. Furthermore, he claimed ignorance about finalising the CMP.  

Sharad Pawar said, "We discussed in detail about Maharashtra's political situation. I briefed Sonia Gandhi on it. Mr. AK Antony was also there. Certain leaders of both(Congress-NCP) parties will meet and discuss further and get back to us. There was no talk of Government formation in our meeting, this meeting was all about discussing Congress and NCP." 

Read: Lok Sabha: Shiv Sena, Congress, TMC File Adjournment Motion Notices For Various Reasons

The tussle for power in Maharashtra

Since none of the major political parties could garner enough numbers for government formation, President's Rule was imposed in Maharashtra on November 12. Hectic parlays have been going on in the NCP, Shiv Sena, and Congress camps to forge a post-poll alliance in the state. Sources also indicated that a formula has been worked out whereby the Sena would get the CM’s post for 5 years. However, all three parties would have ministers proportionate to their strength in the Maharashtra assembly. As per the sources, the Sena, NCP, and Congress could get 16, 14 and 12 ministries respectively.    

Read: Ramdas Athawale Reveals Counseling Shiv Sena's Sanjay Raut, Urging Compromise With BJP