Chavan should memorise the word 'Mumbai': Raj

Objecting to the word 'Bambai' for Mumbai used by designate Chief Minister of Maharashtra Prithviraj Chavan, Maharashtra Navnirman Senha chief Raj Thackeray on Wednesday asked him to take oath in Marathi.

"Even if Prithviraj Chavan worked in northern India and was well verse with Hindi, he is originally from Karad and therefore as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra should take oath in Marathi," Raj told reporters in Mumbai on Wednesday.

Chavan used the word after the announcement of his name as the state chief minister while speaking to reporters in Delhi. He is expected to arrive in Mumbai in the evening and the swear-in ceremony is likely to be held on Thursday.

Raj also said that he should be gifted prayer beads to memorise the word 'Mumbai' and warned him to get acquainted with the state if he is not.

Referring to the Adarsh housing scam due to which Ashok Chavan was forced to step down, Raj advised the new CM not to get involved in any such land issues and maintain his non controversial image.

The MNS leader also wished Chavan luck for the new assignment, provided the state Congress leaders help him to sustain on the post.