Maharashtra CM calls on Bal Thackeray

Mumbai, July 18 (UNI) Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh, deputy Chief Minister R R Patil today called on Shiv Sena chief Bal Thackeray at his residence Matoshri at Bandra, in north west Mumbai.

The meeting carries significance against the backdrop of tomorrow's Presidential election for which the Shiv Sena has already announced their support to UPA candidate, Ms Pratibha Patil.

Apart from Mr Deshmukh and Mr Patil, Sena executive president Uddhav Thackeray and senior Shiv Sena leader Manohar Joshi were also present during the meeting which lasted for nearly 45 minutes.

Mr Deshmukh and Mr Patil apprised the octogenarian maverick leader, under what circumstances Ms Patil could not come to meet him personally, sources said.

Ms Patil, who was expected to come to her home state today has cancelled her trip at the last minute.

UNI