DF removes Tatkare thorn but ally refuses to climb down

Patil told Deshmukh his party was not interested in supporting the government any more and gave no specific assurances regarding his support.

Deshmukh later called on Governor P.C. Alexander to brief him on the political situation and explain the police raid on Matroshree Club, where some Independent MLAs were camping on advice of former CM Narayan Rane.

Deshmukh said that a police team was deployed at Matoshree club following reports that one MLA, Shirish Kotwar, needed medical treatment for a heart ailment. ‘‘We will not do anything that will create a law and order problem or snatch the rights of elected representatives,’’ he said.

At an impromptu press conference today, Deshmukh admitted that the state was heading for a period of uncertainty. ‘‘The numbers game is such that no party can be stable. A fresh mandate is better than a fractured mandate,’’ he said, hinting at fresh polls.

Deshmukh also confessed that he had taken the day off for crisis management. ‘‘In all this I cannot forget that I am the Chief Minister. I have to do my duty. I will resume regular work tomorrow,’’ he added.

Meanwhile, the saffron combine stepped up its drive to dislodge the DF Government. Shiv Sena leader Narayan Rane and BJP leader Gopinath Munde held meetings to discuss the strategy to topple the government.

‘‘We are sure, the motion of confidence will be defeated. We have the support of 154 legislators in the house of 288,’’ Munde said.

Munde claimed that despite Deshmukh’s tall claims, Congress legislator Padmakar Valvi has withdrawn his support to the government. ‘‘We have the letters of Congress and NCP MLAs, but we will not disclose their names now or they will receive notices from the Speaker,’’ Munde said.