Shiv Sena (UBT) should be ashamed for having to vote for Congress, says CM Shinde

Maharashtra CM criticizes Shiv Sena for voting Congress, praises PM Modi's selfless service at rally.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Saturday said the Shiv Sena (UBT) should be ashamed for disregarding the principles of Bal Thackeray and having to vote for the Congress.

The Congress has fielded Varsha Gaikwad from Mumbai North Central Lok Sabha seat, from where Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray is a voter.

Ms. Gaikwad had met Mr. Thackeray on April 26 and the latter had assured her of victory.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Congress are part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance, which also has the Sharad Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party (SP).

Speaking at a massive rally here which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Mr. Shinde said the move was a diversion from Bal Thackeray's resolve of not allowing the (undivided) Shiv Sena to become like the Congress.

"The Shiv Sena (UBT) should be ashamed of itself," the Maharashtra CM asserted.

Speaking at the rally, Mr. Shinde said the PM had selflessly dedicated himself in the service of the nation whereas the opposition lacked any kind of leadership.