NCP hits out at Maharashtra CM Prithviraj Chavan over his remarks on regional parties

Barely a day after the conclusion of elections in Maharashtra, NCP today hit out at Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan for his comments that regional parties should be barred from contesting the Lok Sabha elections. "Regional parties are not allowed to contest the national elections in Germany. Similarly, we must prohibit regional parties from contesting the Lok Sabha polls. Only then will the polity move towards a two or three-party system like the one that exists in the United States," Chavan is reported to have said at a media event.

Reacting to the remark, NCP spokesman Nawab Malik said, "We don't know what's in his mind, but such remarks, if implemented can have dangerous repercussions." "Even though, Chavan has said it was his personal view and not that of the Congress party, Chief Minister should remember that UPA was formed with the help of regional parties and even the BJP-led NDA comprised regional parties. It is the right of every person to contest elections," he added.

NCP will oppose any such move, Malik added. He also said that NCP is committed to the expansion of the UPA.