President's rule in Maharashtra hits BJP hardest, contends Amit Shah

Union Home Minister and BJP president Amit Shah on Wednesday said that his Bharatiya Janata Party has suffered the most with the imposition of President's Rule in Maharashtra. Speaking to ANI, Shah said, "I would like to make it clear that if there is any party which has suffered the most with the imposition of President's Rule in Maharashtra, then it is the BJP. We have lost a caretaker government. The opposition has lost nothing."

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Shah nods no to midterm polls

When asked what would happen after the President's rule ends in six months, Shah expressed unwillingness over midterm elections in Maharashtra. "I do not want re-election in Maharashtra. After the completion of the six-month period, the Governor will take legal opinion and take the constitutional step. Those who say that imposing president's rule was unconstitutional, I would like to tell them that they still have their rights. They just do not have the required numbers. If they have numbers, then they can go and form the government," the Union Minister outlined.

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Targets Opposition over crying foul

Amit Shah also hit out at the Opposition parties crying foul over the imposition of President's rule in the state. "If they (Opposition) wanted to gain public sympathy by creating a misconception about the president's rule, then it means they do not trust the intelligence of the public," he said. Shah added the Opposition is indulging in "petty politics'' and politically undermining a Constitutional post is detrimental to democracy.

Door still open for govt formation, says Shah

When asked why was there a need to impose President's rule when it was known that coalition talks are underway, Shah said that it was necessary because then there could have been accusations that the caretaker BJP government is being sustained. "As far as giving a chance to form the government, the door is still open. If they have numbers, they can go this instant to the Governor to stake a claim. If there are numbers then anyone can go, we can contact (the Governor), they can contact (sic)."

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