Prithviraj Chavan meets Sonia Gandhi to discuss state polls

The meeting assumes significance in the backdrop of growing unrest within the state Congress against Chavan.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan Sunday meet Congress president Sonia Gandhi in New Delhi to discuss the upcoming Assembly elections.

The meeting assumes significance in the backdrop of growing unrest within the state Congress against Chavan.
According to Congress officials, Chavan discussed the challenges ahead as the state goes for elections in October. A close aide of Chavan said the meeting went well.

However, MPCC sources said the central leadership should convey a strong message to dissidents by reposing faith in Chavan’s leadership. “This will also help Chavan crack the whip against the dissidents who are creating trouble for him,” said a state leader.

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The official party statement said: “Chavan held a meeting with Sonia to discuss poll strategy in Maharashtra. It was a very interactive session.”

Chavan also discussed the NCP’s decision to strike a hard bargain on seat sharing. The meeting is seen as a first step forward to indicate that the central leadership is not likely to take any decision on change of guard in the state.

“Maharashtra cannot be singled out. Instead, the mood is to identity the shortcomings and provide strength through collective functioning, even more specific roles to those who are complaining of being sidelined can be worked out,” said an AICC functionary.