New Delhi, June 19 -- Union Minister Ramdas Athawale on Friday dismissed allegations that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is working to dismantle smaller regional parties.

Speaking to ANI in Delhi, the Minister said such claims were baseless, pointing to his own political journey as evidence of the NDA's inclusive approach.

Athawale, who leads the Republican Party of India (A), asserted that his partnership with the coalition has facilitated the growth of his organisation rather than hindering it.

"I believe this allegation lacks substance. My party is a small party, but despite that, after joining the NDA, my party has reached 28 states and 8 union territories, and is even recognised in Nagaland and Manipur... So, there is no s...