Maharashtra politics has once again become the focal point of statements and allegations. A sensational claim by Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and MLA Aaditya Thackeray has stirred up the state's political arena.
Mumbai: Maharashtra politics witnessed a significant stir on Monday when Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray claimed that 22 MLAs from the ruling alliance, close to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and currently part of Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena, are ready to join the BJP. Aaditya sarcastically remarked that while the Leader of the Opposition in the state is yet to be decided, what is the government so afraid of, despite the absence of a Leader of the Opposition in both houses?
He also stated that the Chief Minister is concerned whether two Leaders of the Opposition have now emerged within the ruling alliance itself, and dismissed reports about a change in Bhaskar Jadhav's name as rumours spread from within the alliance.
Aaditya Thackeray's Major Allegation
During a media interaction on Monday, Aaditya Thackeray claimed that discontent is deepening within the ruling alliance. He stated that many MLAs from the Shinde faction are considered close to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and are consistently working at the behest of power. Aaditya remarked sarcastically,
"The position of Leader of the Opposition in the state assembly and legislative council hasn't even been decided yet, so why does the government appear so uncomfortable? Have two Leaders of the Opposition now emerged within the ruling alliance itself?"
He also alleged that these 22 MLAs have been provided substantial funds over the past few months and are operating entirely under the Chief Minister's instructions.
Shinde Faction's Strong Retort
Aaditya Thackeray also dismissed some recent political rumours. He described reports concerning Leader of the Opposition Bhaskar Jadhav as "deliberately spread rumours" from within the ruling alliance. He alleged that such information is being disseminated to create an atmosphere of political instability.
Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) launched a sharp attack on Aaditya Thackeray's statement. Sanjay Shirsat, a minister in the Shinde government, retorted, "Uddhav Thackeray and Aaditya should first manage their own MLAs. Before commenting on our MLAs, they should focus on their party's situation." Meanwhile, Shinde faction MLA Nilesh Rane sarcastically remarked, "Has Aaditya Thackeray now started becoming an astrologer? He is making new predictions every day."
Chief Minister Fadnavis Rejects Claim
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also completely dismissed Aaditya Thackeray's statement as baseless. He said, "Anyone can say anything. If someone is making this claim today, tomorrow I can also say that 20 of their MLAs are coming to the BJP. Merely saying something doesn't make it true." Fadnavis clarified that Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) is an alliance partner of the Mahayuti, and it is the real Shiv Sena. He stated that the BJP has no need to split MLAs from the Shinde faction.
"We want our ally Shiv Sena to grow ber. The Mahayuti will emerge even more powerful in the coming times," he said. Aaditya Thackeray's claims and the sharp reactions from the Shinde faction and the Chief Minister have once again heated up Maharashtra politics. This dispute comes at a time when discussions about power balance, leadership, and alliances are already intense in the state.
