"The demand for carving out the state of Vidarbha was made soon after Independent but the politicians from western Maharashtra thwarted it...We will stage a sit-in on the Maharashtra foundation day in support of statehood for Vidarbha," he told reporters here yesterday.
He also urged the people of Vidarbha to observe May 1 as "black day".
Dhote also pointed out that while BJP had adopted a resolution backing the demand, its leadership was not pursuing it so as not to disturb the ties with Shiv Sena, which is opposed to separate Vidarbha.
No development was possible unless the region got a statehood, the veteran leader said.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors
Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share
Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor
Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements
Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app