Maha CM turns down Oppn's demand to extend Session period

The Opposition had sought extension of the Monsoon Session to four weeks, saying it was difficult to hold discussion on all issues within two weeks.

However, Chavan said that state government's priority is to answer the quesries raised by the members during the question hour. "We have given priority to answer all the questions asked during the question hour," Chavan said addressing a press conference here.

He said the government is prepared to hold discussions on important issues like the Mantralaya fire and drought-like situation in 15 districts in the state.

During this session, seven new Bills would be tabled, Chavan said. "Seven Bills are proposed to be tabled in the Session. There are 11 Bills pending in the Lower House, two are with the Joint Select Committee and three ordinance will be converted to Bill," he added.

He said discussions would also be held on the dissolution of Belgaum Municipal Corporation, Adarsh scam, irrigation, female foeticide and law and order situation.

Commenting on the 'Black Magic and Evil and Aghori Practices Bill' against superstition, Chavan said they have discussed the Bill with the associations of 'warkaris' and to some extent, unanimity would be achieved.

Warkaris are devotees of Lord Vitthal of Pandharpur, who have been reportedly objecting to some clauses in the Bill.

The Bill was first tabled before the state legislature in 1998 and the the Maharashtra Andhashraddha Nirmulan Samiti has earlier asked the state government "to show courage" in passing the Bill.