Shiv Sena hints towards parting ways with BJP in Maharashtra

The Shiv Sena on Monday hinted towards parting ways with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Maharashtra citing that they don't want to be blamed for people's suffering due to price hike, adding that the party is very close to its decision.

The Shiv Sena is the junior partner in the Maharashtra coalition government led by the BJP.

While addressing the media, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut, after attending a party meeting with Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray, said that due to price hike the people of the country are suffering and hence Shiv Sena does not intend to become a part of this.

"Expenses have increased all over the nation and the farmers' situation is still the same. People are not being able to find any solution to the problems. The people of India who are going through such problems is not because of Shiv Sena and nor do we feel responsible for it," Raut said.

He said there seems to be a mutually emerging feeling against the government.

"The Shiv Sena doesn't want to become a part of this. In today's meeting, we discussed about the current situation, while Uddhavji listened to everybody," Raut told the media.

Raut emphasised on the price hike and its consequences that the people have to face, and the farmers' waivers that they haven't received that was a commitment by the Government.

"The party members feel and have discussed whether we should stay with the Government or not stay with the Government. What will be the next step was also discussed in the meeting," Raut said.

Raut stated that the decision will be taken by the Shiv Sena Chief Uddhav Thackeray only and added, "We are thinking about the people and hence making the decision."

Earlier, in October 2014, the Shiv Sena decided to part ways with its ally in BJP but that parting, however, was short-lived as the two reconciled after just 40 days.