PM Modi uses special powers to revoke Article 356 in Maharashtra
Mumbai/IBNS: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday used special powers conferred on him under rules for the transaction of government business to recommend the end to President's rule in Maharashtra.
There was no Cabinet meeting held to recommend the revocation of Article 356 or President’s rule in Maharashtra on Saturday morning.
"According to a former home ministry officer, while Cabinet approval is mandatory for revocation of the presidential proclamation under Article 356, exceptions can be made in emergent cases, as per the discretion of the PM," NDTV reported.
The people of Maharashtra woke up to a new twist in the state's political drama, which started immediately after the poll results were declared on Oct 24, as NCP chief Sharad Pawar's nephew and party leader Ajit took some MLAs and supported the BJP to form the government.
Ajit took oath as the Deputy Chief Minister leading to the congratulatory messages from the BJP camp including party chief Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Modi congratulated the Fadnavis-Ajit duo hoping for their "diligent work" in Maharashtra. He tweeted, "Congratulations to @Dev_Fadnavis Ji and @AjitPawarSpeaks Ji on taking oath as the CM and Deputy CM of Maharashtra respectively. I am confident they will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra."
Congratulations to @Dev_Fadnavis Ji and @AjitPawarSpeaks Ji on taking oath as the CM and Deputy CM of Maharashtra respectively. I am confident they will work diligently for the bright future of Maharashtra.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 23, 2019
Though initially Ajit claimed he had the support of 35 MLAs, NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Saturday evening held a meeting at his place where several of the rebel lawmakers were present.
The NCP on Saturday night said the party has the support of 50 of 54 MLAs who were elected exactly a month ago.
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