In Maharashtra,there is still no breakthrough over the seat sharing issue between the BJP and the Shivsena .While the Shiv Sena is firm on its decision to contest on a minimum of 150 seats in the 288 member state assembly, the BJP too does not want to climb down from its demand of 130 seats leaving their four smaller partners in complete disarray.

The smaller alliance partners yesterday held separate meetings with the BJP and Shiv Sena leaders asking them to settle for a formula that will allow Shiv Sena to contest 150 seats, BJP 120 seats and the 4 smaller partners a share of the remaining 18 seats. A final decision in this regard is expected today.

On the other hand,Congress also firm on its decision to allot just 128 seats to NCP. Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan has asked the NCP to soften its stand and accept the offer for the sake of alliance.

He clarified that there will be no more discussions with NCP on this issue and a final decision will positively be taken by today.

In a significant development , the party has released its first list of 118 candidates for upcoming assembly elections in Maharashtra.

Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan and several of his cabinet colleagues figure in the list announced late last night. Mr Chavan will fight from Karad South seat.