Mid-term polls not likely: Chavan

Says UPA has the support of pro-reform parties

Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan today ruled out the possibility of mid-term polls in the country despite Trinamool Congress pulling out of the UPA government.

"UPA has the support of pro-reform parties. Besides, people don't want elections now, but are looking forward to policy decisions which are in their interest," Chavan told reporters, after performing Ganesh puja at his official residence 'Varsha' in south Mumbai.

Stressing that there is no political instability at the Centre, Chavan said he is keeping a watch on the political developments taking place in Delhi.

Stating that people are not against reforms, he said, "Nobody likes a price rise. But at the same time economic reforms are needed for growth."

 

The implementation of FDI in retail is in the hands of the state governments. "The states will be instrumental in giving permissions and licenses to companies," he said.

Trinamool, the second largest constituent of UPA with 19 MPs, last night decided to withdraw support to the government and pull out its ministers, opposing the decisions to hike diesel prices, cap supply of subsidised LPG cylinders and allow FDI in multi brand retail.