Expelled BJP MP shares dais with Mah CM

Poharadevi, Maharashtra, Oct 4 (UNI) Giving full indications that he is all set to join the Congress, expelled BJP MP Haribhau Rathod today shared the dais with Maharashtra Chief Minister Vilasrao Deshmukh, who virtually invited him into the party with an assurance that all his demands would be considered by the state government.

Mr Rathod, a Banjara, had organised a public meeting here, which is the place of worship for his community.

Mr Deshmukh, in his speech, while referring to Mr Rathod, said ''Our views match, so you should join us quickly. All your demands, including the implementation of Renke Commission report, will be considered.'' Mr Rathod, who was elected as the BJP MP from Yavatmal in 2004, had preferred to remain absent during the confidence motion in Parliament in July. Consequently, he was expelled from the party immediately.

Mr Deshmukh also announced a grant of Rs 50 crore for the place of worship on the occasion.

Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president Manikrao Thakre asked Mr Rathod to join the party early and develop the same.

Mr Rathod said a rally of denotified tribes will be held on October 15 in New Delhi. If the Congress considers his demand for implementation of Renke Commission, it will benefit 15 crore denotified and nomadic tribes, he added.

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