Shiv Sena leader calls BJP's Ravindra Chavan 'useless minister'; Fadnavis counters

Mumbai, Aug 19 (PTI) Shiv Sena (Shinde camp) leader Ramdas Kadam on Monday called BJP leader and Maharashtra PWD Minister Ravindra Chavan a "useless minister" over the poor state of the Mumbai-Goa Highway, only to be countered by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis who questioned if his comments were in line with the principles of the Mahayuti alliance.

Talking to reporters in Thane, Kadam, a former minister, took a dig at Chavan over incomplete work on the Mumbai-Goa Highway that passes through the coastal districts of Maharashtra.

"After a 14-year wait, even Lord Ram's vanvas (exile) ended, but problems on the Mumbai-Goa Highway persist. We are still deprived of good roads. State PWD Minister Ravindra Chavan seems completely useless. Despite being in an alliance, I openly believe that Devendra Fadnavis should ask for Chavan's resignation," he said.

He further questioned the purpose of the minister's review meetings and tours when the condition of roads has still not improved.

Reacting to the Shiv Sena leader's remarks, Fadnavis said, "What alliance principle does Kadam adhere to while making such comments in public? He could have addressed his concerns internally with us. Nevertheless, I will look into the issues he has raised." Shiv Sena leaders from Kalyan recently met Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's son, MP Shrikant Shinde, to express their disappointment over the poor condition of the Mumbai-Goa Highway.