Shiv Sena’s attempt to form the government without pre-poll ally BJP failed badly, as the Congress and NCP failed to extend support within the governor’s deadline on Monday. The saffron party, which exited the national NDA in the morning, was left embarrassed by the night.

On Monday morning, all indications were that the Sena will form government with the help of the Congress and NCP. But as the minutes ticked away on the governor’s timer, no letter of support was forthcoming from the Democratic Front allies.