Ketki Angre

Monday, October 3, 2005 (Mumbai):


Following the recent crisis in the Shiv Sena, NCP chief Sharad Pawar
is trying to woo Sena rebels.

In the past, NCP has been successful in weaning away key Shiv Sena
leaders including Chagan Bhujbal and Ganesh Naik.

Just a few days ago, former Sena leader from Thane Satish Pradhan
had also met up with Pawar.

''The Shiv Sena has forgotten the common man and the 'Marathi
manoos'. Now it's a party that is only working for individual
gains," said Pawar.

"The effects of that are for all to see. We know in which direction
the party is heading," he added.

"So for those who want to work honestly and diligently have no place
in these parties anymore. In reality joining the NCP is their only
real option," Pawar said.

Harsh words

Speaking at a party function, Pawar also had a few harsh words for
the NCP's ally, the Congress.

Tensions between the NCP and Congress have grown after reports that
few of Rane's supporters may be fielded by the Congress in the
future.

''I have seen that our coalition partners try and put the blame on
us whenever they are faced with an internal problem," said Pawar.

''I can only say that they should try and solve they internal
differences on their own. We work together and intend to do that in
the future," he contended.

NCP emerged as the single largest party in the state after the last
assembly elections. This is a position that Pawar would not let go
off so easily.