Rane to meet Shah; may float party

Likely to be inducted into Maharashtra cabinet next month

While rebel Congress leader Narayan Rane is all set to meet BJP national president Amit Shah on Monday, he is not likely to join the party and is contemplating launching his own outfit in mid-October.

Last week, Mr. Rane announced his resignation from the Congress and from the post of MLC. At a press conference later, the former Chief Minister targeted State Congress leaders. He, however, chose to praise party vice-president Rahul Gandhi.

According to Mr. Rane’s close aide, the ceremony to induct Mr. Rane into the cabinet will be held in the first week of October. “He is not likely to join as a BJP member, but will remain independent,” he said. Mr. Rane’s son Nitesh, who is a Congress MLA, has not resigned from the party.