Uddhav Skips Function Attended by Modi

MUMBAI: In a clear sign that he was not ready to break the ice with the BJP, Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Saturday skipped a function where Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the chief guest.

The BJP, on his part, has also decided not to pursue the Shiv Sena for its support to form the government in Maharashtra.

Modi inaugurated the renovated Sir Harkishandas Hospital, a project by Reliance Foundation, here on Saturday evening. Uddhav skipped the function, even though he was invited.

A source in the Sena said Uddhav did not want to meet Modi when both the parties have not resolved their differences over government formation in the state. The Sena had said it was interested in extending support to the BJP, but the latter was yet to respond to their proposal.

Meanwhile, the BJP may not induct anyone from the Sena in the Cabinet at the time of the Chief Minister’s swearing-in ceremony. The party is planning to hold the ceremony at Wankhede Stadium on Thursday.

“A decision on whether the Sena representatives should be inducted into the Cabinet depends on their stand. If they support the government from outside the question will not arise,” a BJP leader said.

State BJP president Devendra Fadnavis, who is the front-runner for the CM’s post, said the party would adopt the Centre’s ‘minimum government, maximum governance’ formula.