Patil dismisses Sena-RPI alliance speculations as "fiction"

Solapur, Feb 12 (PTI) Maharashtra Home minister R R Patiltoday dismissed rumours of a possibile alliance betweenShivsena and the Republican Party of India (RPI) in the stateas a "fiction".

"(RPI President) Ramdas Athawale is a secular person.. sothe speculation about his possible alliance with Shivsena inMaharashtra look likes a fiction. Even if he tries to go handin hand with Sena, then the people of the state will teach hima lesson," Patil told reporters here.

On Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar''s remarks againstjournalists, Patil said the issue was over since UnionAgriculture Minister Pawar has offered an apology if hisnephew had used abusive language.

The Home minister who was on a marathon visit to thedistrict also said a strict vigil is been kept on mafia andstringent action will be taken against them in case ofirregularities.