NCP rules out taking MNS support

NCP President Sharad Pawar on Tuesday ruled out seeking support from MNS led by Raj Thackeray to form government in Maharashtra.

Pawar, who expressed confidence Congress-NCP Democratic Front (DF) would return to power, was replying to a query from reporters whether he subscribed to the view expressed by his nephew Ajit that his party was not "allergic" to MNS and will not mind seeking its support in government formation.

"I am the party president and my views are final," the NCP President, who cast his vote at his home town of Baramati, said.

Pawar said there were no differences between his party and alliance partner Congress on the issue of Chief Ministership if the DF was voted to power as Congress was contesting more seats than NCP.

Taking a jibe at Shiv Sena, he said the way the Thackeray brothers were fighting publicly, it was indicative of their lack of maturity and ability to run a government.

Pawar, who cast his ballot along with MP daughter Supriya Sule and Maharashtra minister Ajit Pawar, said the issue of price rise would not affect the electoral prospects of the ruling alliance as the government had convincingly explained the reasons behind it.