Maharashtra BJP MLAs’ meeting likely on October 27

RPI leader Ramdas Athawale meets Uddhav Thackeray, says the Sena is "very keen" on forming the government in alliance with the BJP.

In this October 20, 2014 photo, newly elected BJP MLAs celebrate at the party office in Mumbai.

The process of government formation in Maharashtra is expected to be expedited with a meeting of BJP legislators likely to be held in Mumbai on Monday.

“A meeting of BJP legislators is likely on Monday,” a party functionary said in Mumbai on Friday, adding that State unit chief Devendra Fadanvis was the frontrunner for the Chief Minister’s post.

“There are no developments expected during Diwali. The action will start next week,” he said.

RPI leader Ramdas Athawale, who met Shiv Sena president Uddhav Thackeray on Friday, said Mr. Thackeray was “very keen” on forming the government in alliance with the BJP.

However, there is no word yet from the BJP on the former ally’s overtures.

“The BJP legislature party leader would be elected after Diwali. Central observer Rajnath Singh will be in Mumbai after Diwali, and the new leader, who will become the Chief Minister, would be elected in his presence,” the BJP functionary said.

So far, the focus is only on having BJP legislators in the Ministry, he said, declining to comment on whether the Sena may find a place in the new dispensation.

The BJP has 122 members in the 288-member Assembly and is all set to meet Governor Ch. Vidyasagar Rao to stake claim to form the government.

With the NCP offering “unconditional” outside support, some BJP leaders feel the Sena is no longer in a position to dictate terms.

Meanwhile, the BJP is making attempts to get backing of independents and small parties. “We have so far secured support of seven independents and the Bahujan Vikas Aghadi which has three members. Talks are on with Peasants and Workers Party which has three MLAs,” the BJP leader said.