CM gets Sonia certificate

State Congress says it is a message to dissidents in MPCC working at cross purposes with Chief Minister.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi lauded the good work of the state government Wednesday, reposing faith in the leadership of chief minister Prithviraj Chavan.

Sonia, who launched a state health scheme in Palghar, was subtle in expressing her satisfaction at the work of the Chavan government.

She did not mention MPCC chief Manikrao Thakre and AICC general secretary incharge of Maharashtra Mohan Prakash.

Political managers in state Congress were quick to point out, "By lauding the work of Chavan she has boosted his morale. At the same time, she ticked off dissidents in MPCC."

Minister of state for health Suresh Shetty also stands to gain. The presence of Sonia at the launch of a health scheme is acknowledgement of the work being done by his ministry.

Sonia went a step forward when she said, "The Centre is all set to adopt the Maharashtra model."

A senior MPCC general secretary said, "It would be difficult to explain why Soniaji skipped names of Thakre and Prakash in her speech.

"Every word uttered by the high command has significance. When she skips a name it conveys a message to the rank and file."

Thakre camp countered: "The function in Palghar, which is a tribal belt, was administrative. As such, Soniaji gave emphasise on the good work done by Chavan and Shetty. There was no reason to mention names of Thakre or Prakash who do party work."

But Congress and the government often highlight popular schemes together. The development is being seen in the party as a clear snub to Thakre and Prakash.

In state Congress it is no secret that Chavan is in disagreement with the two on matters related to MPCC appointments and cabinet expansion and reshuffle.

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