'Uddhav won't accompany CM during 'puja' at Pandharpur temple'

Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray will not accompany Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis during the annual 'puja' of Lord Vitthal in Pandharpur town, sources close to the former said Wednesday.

Earlier, there were reports that Thackeray would accompany Fadnavis in performing 'puja' of Lord Vitthal in the temple town of Pandharpur in Solapur district on the occasion of Ashadhi Ekadashi on Friday, when the pilgrimage undertaken by devotees from across the state culminates.

The response from the Sena came in the wake of criticism from Maharashtra Congress president Ashok Chavan, who slammed Thackeray over his plan and said his presence will set a new precedent.

"The official 'puja' is always done by the state chief minister. Last year, Lord Vitthal did not wish the chief minister come to him," he said, referring to Fadnavis not going to Pandharpur against the backdrop of Maratha quota stir.

On the 11th day of the bright moon in the month of Ashadh every year, lakhs of devotees reach the temple town of Pandharpur, to have a glimpse of Lord Vitthal.