Cong’s Vikhe Patil slams finance minister’s meet with Shiv Sena chief

Mumbai: The leader of the opposition in the Legislative Assembly, Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil criticised finance minister Sudhir Mungantiwar’s decision to meet Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray at his Bandra residence to discuss the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Bill.

Mr Patil said that if Thackeray has to take a decision regarding the passage of the GST, then why call a special session of state legislature scheduled later this month. Mr Patil is of the opinion that if GST is to be discussed, it should be done with the ministers of Shiv Sena and not their chief.

The opposition leader also alleged that after the meeting, the minister made sure that Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), which is ruled by the Shiv Sena, does not lose out on any revenue.

He also alleged that Mr Thackeray had time to discuss the financial interests but ignored the issue of farmer’s loan waivers.

The Congress leader also attacked the state unit BJP president Raosaheb Danave for his remarks.

Mr Danave had asked the opposition to submit in writing that the loan waiver will stop farmers’ suicides in the state. Mr Patil also hinted that Sena is looking to protect its interest through government policies.