Maharashtra minister Sudhir Mungantiwar Tuesday called UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi and MNS chief Raj Thackeray "defeated leaders", and claimed their meeting was to reduce the pain of poll debacle.
Thackeray had met Gandhi on Monday in New Delhi at the latter's 10 Janpath residence and discussed the issue of EVMs and the political situation in Maharashtra where Assembly elections are scheduled to take place later this year.
Speaking after a cabinet meet, Mungantiwar said, "When two defeated leaders come together, it helps in reducing the pain of (electoral) loss."
After submitting his resignation, Deora tweeted, "I have suggested a three-member panel (to oversee the city party unit) and I am being consulted by leaders to identify names. I look forward to play a national role to help stabilise the party. Needless to say, I will continue to guide and unite the Mumbai Congress."
Nirupam hit back with a tweet in Hindi that said, "A resignation is linked to the sentiment of sacrifice. In this case, a 'national' level post is being sought. Is this a resignation or a ladder to grow politically? The party should be cautious of such 'hard working' people."