Maha CM slams NCP, MNS at Nashik rally

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadanvis Saturday launched a stinging attack on the NCP as well as MNS chief Raj Thackeray on the last day of campaigning for the fourth and final phase of Lok Sabha elections in the state.

Addressing a rally for Sena candidate and sitting MP Hemant Godse, the chief minister fired barbs at his poll opponent Sameer Bhujbal and latter's uncle Chhagan Bhujbal, both of the NCP.

The Sena and the BJP are contesting the elections in alliance.

"Bhujbal and his nephew didn't go to jail for their role in a freedom struggle or due to any agitation for the people of Nashik. The fact is that they were jailed in money laundering cases," the CM said while referring to charges against the uncle-nephew duo, who are out on bail.

Stating that the Bhujbal senior is making "mimicry" on stage during canvassing, Fadnavis said he has not seen a "natsamrat" like the NCP leader.

"Natsamrat" is a legendary Marathi play. Playing the role of its protagonist is considered prestigious as well challenging by actors in Maharashtra.

Voting will be held in Nashik along with 16 other constituencies on Monday.

Taking a swipe at MNS chief Raj Thackeray who held a string of rallies in Maharashtra to highlight "contradictions" in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's statements, Fadnavis said it seems NCP chief Sharad Pawar has hired a railway engine of the MNS.

Railway engine is the election symbol of the Raj Thackeray-led party. The MNS is not contesting Lok Sabha elections this time.

The CM has been accusing Thackeray of doing a bidding of Pawar. In his rallies, Fadnavis had called the MNS chief a "parrot of Baramati", the home turf of Pawar.