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Political Clash Alert: Fadnavis’s ‘Hum Aapke Hain Kaun’ Remark Shakes Up MVA Ahead Of Budget

March 3, 2025, 8:26 am

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis lashed out at the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) on Sunday, criticizing their approach ahead of the upcoming assembly Budget session. At a joint press conference with his deputies, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, Fadnavis highlighted the opposition’s failure to participate in a customary pre-session snack meeting, a gesture he claimed would have allowed for a “fluent conversation.”

Opposition’s Missed Opportunity

Fadnavis pointed out that the MVA had submitted a nine-page letter to the government, but skipped the pre-session “Chahapan” snack meeting that typically facilitates informal dialogue before formal proceedings. “The opposition has handed us a letter based solely on newspaper reports, missing out on the opportunity for meaningful discussion,” he stated. Fadnavis added, “The situation in the Opposition is ‘Hum Aapke Hain Kaun?’ not ‘Hum Saath Saath Hain?’ We will ensure they get a lengthy opportunity to speak in the House during the session.”

Budget Session Details

With the Budget session scheduled to begin on Monday and state Finance Minister Ajit Pawar set to present the Budget on March 10, the government is keen on moving forward. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar assured that despite the absence of the opposition at the pre-session meeting, the House would function smoothly. “We will definitely try to run this session smoothly,” Pawar said, emphasizing that procedural arrangements are in place.

Denying Internal Discord

In a display of unity, Fadnavis dismissed speculations of a rift between him and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. He mockingly compared Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut’s behavior to that of the legendary screenwriting duo Salim-Javed, adding, “There is no war. Those who know both of us will remember what we do when we are together.” Shinde further lightened the mood by noting, “Everything is thanda thanda, cool cool,” while Pawar humorously retorted, “What can I do if you couldn’t keep your chair,” prompting laughter among the trio.

A United Front Amid Political Rivalry

Fadnavis stressed that the ruling coalition—comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP—is working in unison to steer the state forward, dismissing rumors about stalled projects as mere speculation. “We are all working together. The talks about halted projects are completely false rumours,” he asserted, reinforcing the government’s commitment to progress.

As the Budget session draws near, the opposition’s decision to bypass the informal pre-session meeting has come under intense scrutiny. Fadnavis’s remarks underscore his determination to give the opposition ample opportunity to express their views in the House, while simultaneously defending the government’s track record and unity.

With the Budget session set to commence on Monday, the political spotlight remains firmly on the opposition’s handling of pre-session protocols and the government’s assurances of a smooth legislative process. As both sides prepare for a contentious debate, Fadnavis’s robust critique and the lighthearted exchanges among the ruling coalition highlight the vibrant, if at times contentious, nature of Maharashtra politics.

Maha Vikas Aghadi Holds Demonstration Outside Maharashtra Assembly Demanding Shah’s Resignation Over Ambedkar Remarks

December 19, 2024, 1:51 pm

The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) staged a protest outside the Maharashtra Assembly on Thursday, calling for the resignation of Home Minister Amit Shah over his recent remarks regarding Dr. B.R. Ambedkar. The protest was led by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray, who emphasized the significance of Ambedkar’s contributions to the rights of Indian citizens.

In a press conference, Thackeray stated, “In this country, it was possible because of Babasaheb Ambedkar that the citizens have been provided rights. We all believe that such a person is God. All the hatred that Amit Shah had against Babasaheb Ambedkar came out in his speech… we are not going to accept this. This is very wrong.”

Thackeray also took to social media platform X, expressing that insulting Ambedkar is tantamount to insulting the nation. He wrote, “The Maha Vikas Aghadi protested today at Samvidhan Chowk in Nagpur to protest against the insults done to the Constitution and Bharat Ratna Babasaheb Ambedkar with a hateful attitude. Insulting Babasaheb is an insult to the country. This insult has hurt all the lovers of the Constitution. The Union Home Minister will have to apologize for this insult! Hail Bhima! Hail the Constitution!”

BJP Dismisses Protest as Political Gimmick

In response to the protest, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Girish Mahajan dismissed the demonstration as a “gimmick” by opposition leaders. Mahajan stated, “I think this protest is a gimmick of the opposition leaders. There is nothing horrible about this. Amit Shah had disclosed that he had not done this purposely. It is very upsetting that he is being denied admission to every state of the country. The opposition wants to bring people’s attention by raising unreasonable issues.”

The protest was sparked by Shah’s earlier comments, in which he criticized the Congress party for allegedly using Ambedkar’s name for political gain. He remarked, “If they had taken the name of God so many times instead of Ambedkar, they would have got heaven for seven lives.”

The MVA’s demonstration highlights ongoing tensions between the ruling BJP and opposition parties in Maharashtra, particularly regarding the legacy of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, a key figure in India’s constitutional development.

MVA Declares Boycott of Maharashtra Government’s Pre-Session Tea Party

December 15, 2024, 3:38 pm

The opposition coalition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has announced its decision to boycott the Maharashtra government’s tea party scheduled for the eve of the winter session of the legislature.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve announced during a press conference in Nagpur on Sunday, stating, “Opposition MVA to boycott Maharashtra govt’s tea party.”

Danve emphasized that despite their limited representation in the assembly, the MVA would vigorously challenge the government on critical issues, particularly those affecting farmers. He expressed concern over the six-day duration of the winter session, calling it too short. Congress representative Vijay Wadettiwar echoed this sentiment, advocating for an extension of the session.

In a related development, twelve MLAs from the Shiv Sena are set to be sworn in as ministers during a cabinet expansion today. Shiv Sena MLA Bharatshet Gogawale confirmed that the oath-taking ceremony would commence at 4 PM, stating, “Oath ceremony will take place at 4 PM today. So, we have all come to Nagpur. Seven people are new (who will take oath as ministers) and five are being repeated.”

Earlier in the day, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, accompanied by his wife Amruta Fadnavis and state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule, held a roadshow in Nagpur. During the event, Fadnavis remarked, “Nagpur city is my family and my family is welcoming me.”

SP Acting as ‘B-Team’: Aaditya Thackeray Criticizes Samajwadi Party’s Plan to Withdraw from Alliance

December 8, 2024, 3:24 pm

Tensions within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance are escalating, with Aaditya Thackeray of the Shiv Sena (UBT) criticizing the Maharashtra unit of the Samajwadi Party (SP) for its intention to withdraw from the coalition over alleged “Hindutva credentials.”

Thackeray emphasized that the Shiv Sena’s interpretation of Hindutva is inclusive, stating, “Our Hindutva is about ‘hriday mein Ram aur haath ko kaam’ (Ram in the heart and work in the hands)… Our Hindutva is about taking everyone together.”

While refraining from direct criticism of SP national leader Akhilesh Yadav, Thackeray accused the Maharashtra SP of acting as a “B-team” for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). His comments came in response to Maharashtra SP chief Abu Azmi’s announcement to withdraw from the MVA, triggered by a controversial social media post from a Shiv Sena (UBT) legislative council member.

The post, shared by Milind Narvekar, featured an image of the Babri Masjid demolition alongside a quote from Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray expressing pride in the act. Azmi condemned the post, stating that the SP could no longer remain in the MVA, accusing Shiv Sena (UBT) of glorifying those responsible for the Babri Masjid demolition, which he described as a “criminal act” according to the Supreme Court.

Azmi further criticized the Shiv Sena for shifting its ideology

Azmi further criticized the Shiv Sena for shifting its ideology post-election losses, claiming that the MVA’s survival is at stake if such behavior continues. He noted that the SP had contested eight seats in the recent elections, winning only two, while alleging that the MVA fielded candidates against them in seven constituencies.

In response to the controversy, a spokesperson for the national leadership of the Samajwadi Party distanced the party from Azmi’s remarks, stating, “Abu Asim Azmi is a senior leader of the Samajwadi Party in Maharashtra, but decisions about the party’s alliances are made by the national leadership.”

This development occurs amid growing discord within the INDIA bloc on various issues, particularly following the Congress party’s poor performance in recent assembly polls in Haryana and Maharashtra.

Maharashtra Election Results 2024: Ajaz Khan Fails To Get More Votes Than NOTA

November 23, 2024, 3:04 pm

Former Bigg Boss contestant and actor Ajaz Khan, contesting the Maharashtra assembly elections from the Versova seat, is trailing even behind NOTA (None of the Above). Early trends revealed the controversial actor securing fewer than 100 votes, while NOTA garnered nearly 500 votes.

Khan contested on a ticket from the Aazad Samaj Party (Kanshi Ram), led by Chandrashekhar Azad ‘Ravan,’ who serves as an MP from Nagina, Uttar Pradesh. Despite his attempts to carve a political niche, Ajaz Khan’s prospects appear dim, with his party managing only 56 seats.

Ajaz Khan’s Foray into Politics

Ajaz Khan is no stranger to exploring fields outside acting, including politics. However, his political career has yet to gain significant traction. With his current performance in Versova, his chances of making an impact in the political landscape look increasingly slim.

Tough Competition in Versova

The Versova constituency is witnessing an intense battle between Shiv Sena (UBT)’s Haroon Khan and BJP’s Bharati Lavekar. The seat has drawn considerable attention due to the neck-and-neck contest between these major parties.

BJP-Led Alliance Gains Early Lead in Maharashtra

Initial election trends indicate a dominant performance by the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance, comprising BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction). The alliance seems poised to secure over 200 seats, showcasing a landslide victory.

On the other hand, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, comprising Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction), appears headed for a major setback. The early results signal a resounding defeat for the MVA, marking a significant shift in Maharashtra’s political landscape.

Mahayuti Leads, MVA Close: Exit Polls

November 20, 2024, 8:57 pm

The ruling Mahayuti is poised to retain power in Maharashtra, with the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) also putting up a strong show in assembly polls, exit polls predicted on Wednesday after the conclusion of polling on 288 seats in the state.

According to the Republic TV-PMARQ exit poll, the Mahayuti alliance could win 137-157 seats, whereas the Maha Vikas Aghadi could get 126-147 seats, and others 2-8 seats.

Mahayuti includes BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP, while the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi includes Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (SP).

The Matrize exit poll projected 150-170 seats for the Mahayuti alliance and 110-130 seats for Maha Vikas Aghadi. It said others could get 8-10 seats.

Today’s Chanakya projected that Mahayuti will win 152-150 seats, MVA 130-138 seats, and others 6-8 seats.

‘Peoples Pulse’ projected Mahayuti scoring a decisive victory by getting 175-195 seats. It said Maha Vikas Aghadi is poised to get 85-112 seats and ‘others’ winning 7-12 seats.

The majority mark in the Maharashtra assembly is 145, and the range of Republic TV-PMARQ prediction suggested that even MVA could cross the mark.

Maharashtra polled 58.22 per cent votes till 5 pm on Wednesday.

Also read: Uttar Pradesh Bypolls: Akhilesh Yadav Alleges Police Intimidating Voters With Revolver

The elections saw a keen contest between Mahayuti and MVA. It was the first assembly poll in the state after splits in Shiv Sena and NCP.

Maharashtra Assembly Elections: Voting Begins Across 288 Seats

November 20, 2024, 8:12 am

Voting for the Maharashtra Assembly elections started at 7 AM on Wednesday and will end at 6 PM. The election is taking place across 288 constituencies.

PM Modi Urges Voters

Before the polls, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged citizens to vote on social media platform X. He posted, “Today, votes will be cast for all the seats in the Maharashtra Assembly elections. I urge the voters of the state to participate with full enthusiasm and add to the splendour of this festival of democracy. On this occasion, I appeal to all the youth and women voters to come out in large numbers to vote.”

आज महाराष्ट्र विधानसभा निवडणुकीच्या सर्व जागांसाठी मतदान होत आहे.राज्यातील सर्व मतदारांना माझे आग्रहाचे आवाहन आहे की त्यांनी उत्साहाने या प्रक्रियेत सहभागी व्हावे आणि लोकशाहीच्या या उत्सवाची शोभा वाढवावी.यावेळी सर्व तरुण आणि महिला मतदारांना आवाहन करतो की त्यांनी मोठ्या संख्येने…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 20, 2024

Security Measures in Place

Security is tight in Mumbai. The police have deployed over 25,000 personnel, including riot-control teams. They are conducting vehicle checks in areas like Guru Teg Bahadur Nagar and Dharavi. Over 2,000 officers are on duty to ensure law and order.

Candidate Details

A total of 4,136 candidates are contesting. Among them are 2,086 independents. Key parties and their seats include:

BJP: 149 seats
Shiv Sena: 81 seats
Congress: 101 seats
NCP (Sharad Pawar faction): 86 seats
Shiv Sena (UBT): 95 seats
BSP: 237 seats

Maharashtra has about 9.7 crore registered voters.

Campaign and Alliances

The campaign has been intense with shifting alliances and ideological battles. The main contest is between the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance and the Congress-led Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). The Mahayuti includes BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction). The MVA includes Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction).

Previous Election Results

In the 2019 elections, the BJP won 105 seats, Shiv Sena 56, and Congress 44. In 2014, the BJP secured 122 seats, Shiv Sena 63, and Congress 42.

The results of today’s vote will decide the future of Maharashtra’s leadership.

‘This Aghadi’s gaadi lacks wheels, brakes’: PM Modi Criticizes Maha Vikas Aghadi

November 8, 2024, 3:07 pm

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday took aim at the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) in Maharashtra, comparing it to a “vehicle with no wheels or brakes” and highlighting infighting within the alliance. Addressing a rally in Dhule as part of the BJP’s campaign for the November 20 state assembly elections, Modi stressed that only the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance could ensure progress and stability in Maharashtra.

“Maha Aghadi ki gaadi mein waise bhi na pahiye hain, na break hai. Aur driver ki seat par baithne ke liye bhi jhagda ho raha hai,” Modi said, suggesting that internal disputes are hampering the MVA’s functionality. “Chaaron taraf se bhaati bhaati ke horn sunayi de rahe hain (From all directions, different voices and horns are blaring),” he added.

Promises for Development and Job Creation

PM Modi emphasized that the BJP views citizens as a form of “God” and is dedicated to serving their needs rather than exploiting them. “The pace at which Maharashtra’s development has accelerated in the past two-and-a-half years will not be allowed to stop,” he assured voters, underscoring the Mahayuti alliance’s commitment to advancing the state’s growth.

Modi also announced the Mahayuti government’s plan to recruit 25,000 women into the police force to enhance women’s security and generate new job opportunities.

Criticism of Past Congress Policies and Anti-Reservation Stance

The Prime Minister criticized past Congress leaders, including Pandit Nehru, Indira Gandhi, and Rajiv Gandhi, claiming they enacted anti-reservation policies that adversely impacted OBC and tribal communities. “A dangerous game of pitting one caste against another is being played by the Congress as that party can never see Dalits, backward classes, and tribals progressing,” Modi said, arguing that Congress policies were detrimental to these communities.

PM Modi further alleged that the Congress-led MVA would end the Ladki Bahin scheme, a program providing financial support to women in Maharashtra. He assured the audience that the BJP would continue to protect and expand initiatives that benefit women, enhance security, and boost development.

In his address, Modi positioned the BJP-led Mahayuti as the only alliance capable of driving meaningful progress in Maharashtra and addressing the needs of all communities, while criticizing the opposition’s internal strife and alleged anti-development stance.

Maharashtra Assembly Elections: MVA Struggles to Finalize Seat-Sharing Amid Overlapping Claims

October 28, 2024, 8:35 pm

The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition in Maharashtra is facing difficulties in finalizing seat-sharing agreements as negotiations between Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (Sharad Pawar) remain unresolved ahead of the nomination deadline for the upcoming assembly elections. Overlapping claims on key seats have caused contention, particularly between Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT), with only a few seats yet to be settled before the October 29 deadline.

Disagreements on Seat Allocations and Strategy

MVA initially agreed to contest 85 seats per party across the state’s 288 assembly seats. However, Congress later pushed for 90 seats, sparking internal disagreement. Congress has already announced candidates for 99 seats, while Shiv Sena (UBT) and NCP (SP) have announced candidates for 85 and 82 seats, respectively. The lack of consensus has also spilled over into other India bloc parties like the Samajwadi Party (SP), which is still waiting for a response from MVA on its request for fair seat distribution to avoid splitting the secular vote.

Tensions Over Chief Ministerial Face and Key Constituencies

Further complicating negotiations are disagreements over projecting a chief ministerial candidate, a move supported by Shiv Sena (UBT) but opposed by Congress and NCP. Tensions are especially pronounced over constituencies in Mumbai, Vidarbha, and other high-stakes regions, such as Solapur (South), Colaba, Malabar Hill, Versova, and Byculla. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut recently cautioned Congress against fielding a candidate in Solapur (South), warning that it could lead to internal rivalries and create fissures within the alliance.

Internal Pressures and Repercussions

Amid the discord, Congress has also faced internal challenges, with candidate changes in Andheri (West) and Aurangabad East. Sources within MVA indicate that unresolved differences may lead to rebel candidates contesting against official MVA nominees.

Meanwhile, the ruling Mahayuti alliance, comprising BJP, Shiv Sena (Eknath Shinde faction), and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction), appears to be managing internal pressures more effectively. The BJP has reportedly allocated seats to coalition partners to contest under their own symbols, reinforcing a united front for the November 20 polls.

The outcome of these elections is crucial for both Mahayuti and MVA, as Shiv Sena and NCP factions contend with recent splits, testing each coalition’s resilience in a polarized political landscape.

Maharashtra’s ‘Ladki Behen’ Scheme: Facing Opposition Yet Still Winning Women’s Trust

October 25, 2024, 10:00 am

The “Ladki Behen” scheme, introduced by Maharashtra’s Finance Minister Ajit Pawar in the recent state budget, has garnered significant attention, particularly among women. Launched in August 2024, the initiative provides a monthly payment of ₹1,500 to eligible women and has attracted over 15 million registrations. However, the scheme has faced opposition-led smear campaigns aimed at undermining its credibility ahead of the upcoming elections.

Scheme Details and Initial Reception

Initially touted as a substantial welfare program for women, the “Ladki Behen” scheme was met with skepticism from critics, who dismissed it as a gimmick. Nevertheless, many women across Maharashtra registered, showcasing their confidence in the program. As registrations surged, opponents shifted their focus to questioning the scheme’s financial sustainability, alleging that the state was borrowing excessively each week to support it, which raised concerns about Maharashtra’s financial health.

Ajit Pawar responded to these claims, stating that the state budget had allocated ₹46,000 crore for the scheme. Despite this assurance, opposition parties continued to spread rumors, alleging non-payment to contractors and negative impacts on state development. Nonetheless, the scheme maintained its popularity among women.

Opposition’s Strategy to Discredit the Initiative

After failing to discredit the scheme through financial arguments, critics resorted to moral accusations, suggesting that the government was “buying” votes with monthly payments. Social media saw a flurry of videos featuring women asking for cheaper LPG cylinders instead of cash. Yet, the timely deposit of funds into beneficiaries’ accounts reinforced their support for the initiative.

In a more direct attack, opposition members attempted to sabotage the registration process. Some set up unauthorized camps with misleading information, while others filled out forms incorrectly to create confusion. BJP MLA Ram Kadam highlighted these issues in the state assembly, accusing opponents of submitting false data to disrupt the scheme. Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis confirmed that technological interference was being used against the initiative, prompting the state government to accept offline applications to ensure beneficiaries received their funds.

Misinformation Campaigns and Government Reassurances

Despite the challenges, over 15 million women successfully registered, and the first two installments were distributed. However, opponents began spreading false warnings, advising beneficiaries to withdraw their money immediately, claiming the government would reclaim it. Senior leaders from the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition propagated these fears.

To combat this narrative, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar publicly reassured women that the funds were a “gift” and would not be taken back. They reiterated the government’s commitment to the scheme, emphasizing its significance for women’s welfare.

As elections approach, opposition efforts to undermine the program have intensified. Misinformation has spread online, falsely claiming a ₹5,500 bonus for registered women, despite no official announcement. The opposition also claimed that the scheme was suspended due to the Election Commission’s code of conduct. However, Eknath Shinde clarified that the scheme was only temporarily paused and would resume post-elections, with ongoing deposits into beneficiaries’ accounts.

Government’s Proactive Measures

To mitigate any impact from election-related delays, the Maha Yuti government issued advance payments to ensure continued benefits for women during the election period. This was viewed as a commitment to uphold promises made to women voters. Meanwhile, the opposition has threatened to terminate the scheme if they gain power. Former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray stated that if his party wins, they will halt the program and pursue legal action against the current leadership.

As the election date nears, the “Ladki Behen” scheme remains a crucial issue in Maharashtra’s political landscape. Despite ongoing opposition attacks, the program continues to resonate with women, who view it as an essential support system.

Maharashtra Assembly Polls: Maha Vikas Aghadi on Verge of Sealing Crucial Seat-Sharing Deal

October 22, 2024, 11:54 am

The final seat-sharing agreement among Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) allies is expected to be sealed on Tuesday, October 22, after a crucial meeting between the parties in Mumbai. This follows several days of negotiations between the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) regarding seat allocation for the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections.

Meeting Scheduled to Finalise Deal

Ramesh Chennithala, the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in-charge for Maharashtra, announced that the seat-sharing deal between the MVA allies will be finalised in the meeting scheduled for 3 PM on Tuesday. He also mentioned that another Central Election Committee (CEC) meeting will take place on October 25. So far, the Congress has discussed nominees for 63 seats, with Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole stating that the deadlock between MVA allies involves 35-40 seats.

Consensus Reached on Majority of Seats

On Sunday, Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Raut confirmed that the MVA alliance had agreed on 210 out of 288 assembly seats. “We have arrived at a consensus on 210 seats. It is a significant achievement. We aim to contest polls as a joint force, and we will defeat the forces looting Maharashtra,” Raut, a Rajya Sabha MP, said.

Congress-Shiv Sena Dispute Over Certain Seats

Despite progress, the alliance has yet to reach an agreement on seats that Congress will contest. To resolve the ongoing seat-sharing tensions, Chennithala met with Uddhav Thackeray and NCP chief Sharad Pawar on Saturday, though no final resolution was reached.

Concessions Made to End Stalemate

In a move to break the deadlock, Congress has reportedly agreed to give up the Vandre East and Ghatkopar West seats in Mumbai to Shiv Sena (UBT), according to MVA insiders. Additionally, Congress will concede two seats in Vidarbha. However, the party remains firm in retaining the Nagpur South seat and is not willing to give it to Uddhav Thackeray’s party.

Key Contenders in Vandre East

Zeeshan Siddique is the current MLA from Vandre East, but Shiv Sena (UBT) intends to field Uddhav Thackeray’s nephew, Varun Sardesai, for the seat. A senior Congress leader mentioned that this issue is a sticking point in the negotiations.

Deal Likely to be Finalised Soon

Nana Patole revealed that Congress has cleared candidates for 96 seats, and with tensions easing between the two parties in recent days, the seat-sharing agreement is expected to be finalised by Tuesday evening.

EC Slams Sanjay Raut’s Baseless President’s Rule Claim

October 21, 2024, 10:18 pm

Allegations made by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut regarding the potential imposition of President’s Rule in Maharashtra after the upcoming assembly polls are unfounded and reflect a misunderstanding of constitutional provisions, sources from the Maharashtra Chief Electoral Office said on Monday.

The sources informed that the role of the Election Commission is to conduct the elections and submit the list of newly elected MLAs to the Governor within six months of the completion of the Assembly’s term, in accordance with Section 15 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, and Article 172(1) of the Constitution.

The Commission will complete this process before November 26, 2024, with the counting of votes set to conclude on November 23. Once the list of newly-elected MLAs is submitted, the Governor can invite the formation of the government, as per his constitutional mandate outlined in Article 164. This process is not restricted by the Assembly’s term expiration on November 26, which is relevant only for the completion of the election process, according to the sources.

On Sunday, Raut had alleged that the BJP fears defeat in the Maharashtra assembly elections, as the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance is confident of forming the next government. “This is why the Election Commission has allowed only a few days for the government formation after the poll results,” he claimed.

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Maharashtra is scheduled to vote on November 20, with the results set to be declared on November 23.

Maharashtra Assembly Elections: 216 Seats Discussed; Remaining Seats to be Finalized Today

October 17, 2024, 2:37 pm

Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Assembly, Vijay Wadettiwar, announced on Thursday that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition has discussed 216 seats in preparation for the upcoming assembly elections. The remaining 66 seats are expected to be addressed in a meeting scheduled for today at Sofitel Hotel BKC in Mumbai. Wadettiwar indicated that the MVA plans to hold a press conference to announce the seat-sharing agreement by this evening or tomorrow.

No Doors Closed for Samajwadi Party

Addressing concerns raised by Samajwadi Party Maharashtra President Abu Azmi regarding seat-sharing disputes, Wadettiwar reassured that the MVA remains open to collaboration with the Samajwadi Party. “No door of the Maha Vikas Aghadi is closed for the Samajwadi Party. Our first discussion has taken place. We will have seat sharing today, and we will resolve any issues within two days,” he stated.

Concerns from Samajwadi Party Leadership

On Wednesday, Azmi expressed dissent through a post on X, emphasizing that the MVA should not release its candidate list without consulting the Samajwadi Party. He warned that any unilateral announcements would suggest the party is not considered a part of the MVA coalition. Azmi also sought permission from National President Akhilesh Yadav to allow the Samajwadi Party to contest as many seats as possible in constituencies where it is strong.

The Maharashtra assembly elections are set for November 20, as announced by the Election Commission of India. This election cycle marks a significant shift in alliances, with the Shiv Sena (UBT), Sharad Pawar’s NCP, and Congress uniting to challenge the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance. In the previous 2019 elections, the MVA coalition secured 154 out of 288 seats. In the recent Lok Sabha elections, the MVA won 30 of the 48 available seats, while the ruling alliance secured 17. One seat went to an independent candidate.

MVA Slams Shinde Govt With Scathing White Paper Before Maharashtra Polls

October 13, 2024, 10:27 pm

Ahead of the upcoming Maharashtra elections, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance released a scathing white paper titled “Gaddarancha Panchnama” accusing Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s Mahayuti coalition of betraying the state’s values and people. The document, presented by NCP (SCP) leader Sharad Pawar, Congress chief Nana Patole, and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, highlights several alleged government failures, including corruption, women’s safety, and job creation.

Corruption Allegations Against the Mahayuti Govt

The white paper accused the Shinde-led government of indulging in corruption even while building the iconic statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. MVA leaders claimed that the Mahayuti government has dishonored Maharashtra’s legacy, particularly the teachings of Phule, Shahu, and Ambedkar. “Let us banish these traitors,” the booklet urged the public, referring to the government as the “Khoke Sarkar” and listing multiple alleged scams.

Concerns Over Women’s Safety and Mismanaged Schemes

The MVA booklet emphasized the rising crimes against women, stating that under Devendra Fadnavis’s leadership, Maharashtra saw 129 daily crimes against women. Sharad Pawar also criticized the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin income support scheme, accusing the government of failing to provide clear budgeting and financial provisions for the initiative. “If they provide financial clarity, we won’t oppose it,” said Pawar.

Failed Job Creation Promises

The white paper also pointed out the government’s failure to meet its job creation promises. According to MVA, the NDA government has broken its pledge of creating 5 crore new jobs and failed to fill over 2 lakh vacant government positions.

Uddhav Thackeray’s Challenge on CM Face

Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray challenged the ruling Mahayuti to declare their Chief Ministerial candidate. He asserted that MVA would announce its CM face once the Mahayuti declares theirs.

Fadnavis Emerges Prominent Frontrunner In BJP President Race

August 2, 2024, 12:23 am

Maharashtra politics may also experience the winds of change any time soon. There is growing speculation within the BJP that the party will soon announce its new national president.

Talking about the names of potential candidates, former Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has emerged as a prominent frontrunner in the race for the BJP’s national president. If Fadnavis is officially announced as the new president, it could signify a major transformation in Maharashtra’s political landscape. However, the party is also considering several other notable figures for the role, including Vinod Tawde, Sunil Bansal, Dharmendra Pradhan, and Bhupendra Yadav. These discussions reflect ongoing deliberations within the BJP as it plans its next leadership move.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly engaged in discussions with senior party leaders and RSS officials about this crucial decision several time. Maharashtra also stands significant for BJP owing to its comparatively weaker stand here. Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has emerged as a leading contender for the role, suggesting a potential shift in Maharashtra’s political dynamics.

However, the situation is further complicated by internal party politics and upcoming state elections. Vinod Tawde, a current general secretary from Maharashtra, is also considered a strong candidate due to his alignment with the party’s caste considerations. Despite this, discussions are leaning towards alternative scenarios.

Additionally, the political landscape in Maharashtra is currently tense due to statements from various leaders. The BJP appears to be on the back foot against the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition. While experts believe Uddhav Thackeray is unlikely to break away from the Congress alliance, political dynamics are unpredictable.

Thackeray’s recent remarks about Devendra Fadnavis—questioning whether Fadnavis will remain in Maharashtra or leave—hint at underlying tensions. Previously, Thackeray sought the Chief Minister’s position, which led to a power struggle. Despite becoming Chief Minister with Congress and NCP support, BJP’s maneuvering altered the political balance.
The situation now mirrors the 2019 political environment, with internal strife in the MVA coalition over seat allocation and leadership. Thackeray aims to secure the Chief Ministerial position and retain 124 seats, while Congress demands 140 to 145 seats out of the 288 available in the assembly and prefers postponing the announcement of their candidate.
Uddhav Thackeray has two choices: either align with the BJP now to secure a Chief Ministerial position—something the BJP would likely support—or wait until after the elections. If the BJP appoints Devendra Fadnavis to a new role in Delhi, it would signal Thackeray to reconsider his stance. A shift by Thackeray could reshape Maharashtra’s political landscape and bolster the NDA. The crucial question is whether the BJP leadership will promote Fadnavis, which could significantly impact Maharashtra’s political dynamics.
Given the upcoming elections in Haryana, Maharashtra, and Jharkhand, the BJP faces a strategic dilemma. The party is contemplating two primary options: appointing an acting president immediately or allowing the current president, JP Nadda, to continue in his role until after these critical elections. Nadda’s term officially ended on June 30, but he has remained in office due to the lack of a successor.

The BJP plans to announce its new national president or acting president in a way that supports its election strategy for the upcoming polls. With Haryana’s elections being directly contested by the BJP, and Jharkhand and Maharashtra crucial for alliance politics, the choice of president is critical. Maharashtra, in particular, is a key focus due to its political significance and ongoing discussions about the right leader for this important period.

Lok Sabha 2024: Maha Vikas Aghadi Wins Mumbai, Piyush Goyal Victorious

June 4, 2024, 6:24 pm

In a significant turn of events, the Maha Vikas Aghadi secured five out of six seats in Mumbai during the latest Lok Sabha elections, marking a notable triumph for the coalition. The Congress clinched Mumbai North Central, while the Shiv Sena (UBT) emerged victorious in Mumbai North East, Mumbai North West, Mumbai South, and Mumbai North Central. However, BJP’s Piyush Goyal managed to secure a win from Mumbai North in his debut Lok Sabha election, adding to the BJP’s presence in the city.

Amidst the victories, the BJP sought a recount in Mumbai North West, indicating the closely contested nature of the elections. Meanwhile, in Raigad, Ajit Pawar-led NCP’s Sunil Tatkare emerged victorious, securing the sole seat the party led in throughout the counting process.

According to Election Commission figures, the NDA is currently leading in 17 seats, while the INDIA bloc is ahead in 24 seats, setting the stage for a nuanced political landscape. Notable contests include NCP(SP)’s Supriya Sule’s commanding lead over her sister-in-law Sunetra Pawar in Baramati, while BJP’s Pankaja Munde faces a trailing position in the family bastion of Beed.

The election fray, comprising 1,121 candidates, witnessed prominent figures vying for seats, including Union ministers Nitin Gadkari (Nagpur), Narayan Rane (Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg), Raosaheb Danve (Jalna), Bharti Pawar (Dindori), and Kapil Patil (Bhiwandi). Notably, candidates leading in Jalgaon, Mumbai North, Raver, Osmanabad, Kalyan, Thane, and Nandurbar have established significant margins, exceeding 1 lakh votes.

As the election results unfold, the political landscape in Maharashtra continues to evolve, reflecting the electorate’s diverse choices and aspirations.

Maha Vikas Aghadi Unveils Lok Sabha Seat-Sharing Plan for Maharashtra Ahead of Upcoming Polls

April 9, 2024, 2:58 pm

Following weeks of intense negotiations, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition revealed their seat-sharing plan for the 48 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra on Tuesday. As per the plan, Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray faction) will contest 21 seats, the Congress party will vie for 17 seats, and the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar faction) will field candidates in 10 seats.

The seat-sharing arrangement was jointly announced by NCP (SP) chief Sharad Pawar, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, and Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole. The MVA and the ruling Mahayuti, which includes the BJP, NCP led by Ajit Pawar, and Shiv Sena led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, are fiercely competing for the 48 parliamentary seats in Maharashtra.

In the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the BJP and the undivided Shiv Sena allied and secured 23 and 18 seats respectively.

The upcoming Lok Sabha polls in the state are scheduled in five phases from April 19 to May 20. The constituencies of Ramtek, Nagpur, Bhandara-Gondiya, Gadchiroli-Chimur, and Chandrapur will cast their votes in the first phase on April 19.

Buldhana, Akola, Amravati, Wardha, Yavatmal-Washim, Hingoli, Nanded, and Parbhani are scheduled to vote in the second phase on April 26. The third phase will include Raigad, Baramati, Osmanabad, Latur, Solapur, Madha, Sangli, Satara, Ratnagiri-Sindhudurg, and Kolhapur, with voting set for May 7.

Polling across Nandurbar, Jalgaon, Raver, Jalna, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, Maval, Pune, Shirur, Ahmednagar, Beed, and Shirdi will take place in the fourth phase on May 13. Dhule, Dindori, Nashik, Palghar, Kalyan, Thane, Mumbai North, Mumbai North-West, Mumbai North-East, Mumbai North-Central, Mumbai South, and Mumbai South-Central are scheduled to vote in the final phase on May 20.

The votes will be counted on June 4.