An independent MLA who supports the BJP-led government in Maharashtra today claimed that at least 20 MLAs of the Shiv Sena would join the BJP if the Uddhav Thackeray-led party decides to pull out of the ruling coalition.
Ravi Rana, an independent MLA from Amravati district, said, "If the Sena decides to withdraw its support, 20-22 of its MLAs would leave the party and join the BJP. Even three or four ministers (of the Sena) in the state cabinet would join the BJP."
Speaking to reporters at the state secretariat here, Rana also claimed that the NCP could support the BJP government in such a scenario.
Politics in Maharashtra is likely to see some churning in the coming days with Narayan Rane, a senior Congress leader, quitting the party yesterday amid speculation that he was keen to join the BJP.
On the other hand, the Shiv Sena, whose relations with the BJP are strained, said earlier this week that it would soon decide whether to stay in the government.
Asked about Rana's claims, Sena spokesperson Neelam Gorhe said her party doesn't take notice of such comments.
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