Tensions between the BJP and the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena in Maharashtra escalate as Ganesh Naik announces a second town hall meeting in Thane, challenging Shinde’s authority. Naik downplayed the event’s importance, insisting its focus was on addressing public concerns. However, this rivalry dates back years, raising eyebrows within political circles. Shinde has warned critics not to underestimate him, recalling his role in toppling Uddhav Thackeray’s government in 2022. Despite underlying discord over issues like security and farmer support prices, the BJP retains a strong majority in the Assembly, minimizing concerns about governmental stability.
Mumbai:
The speculation regarding a divide within Maharashtra’s ruling Mahayuti – specifically between the BJP and the Shiv Sena faction led by Eknath Shinde – intensified on Monday after Ganesh Naik from Shinde’s camp announced plans for a second ‘janta darbar‘, or town hall, scheduled for later today in Thane, which is a stronghold for Shinde.
Posters and large hoardings have been displayed around the city for this event, perceived as a direct challenge to Eknath Shinde’s authority in the district, where he also serves as the ‘guardian minister.’
Mr. Naik, who previously hosted a ‘darbar‘ in Vashi, Navi Mumbai, on February 3, downplayed the political importance of his gathering, asserting that its main objective is to address the concerns of the public.
Naresh Mhaske, the Lok Sabha MP from Thane, affiliated with Mr. Shinde’s Sena, appeared unconcerned, telling journalists, “Why should we object when people meet their political leaders?”
This dispute surrounding the Thane town hall is particularly noteworthy due to the longstanding rivalry between Mr. Naik and Mr. Shinde, dating back to when Mr. Shinde was still part of the united Shiv Sena under Uddhav Thackeray, while Mr. Naik was affiliated with the undivided NCP led by Sharad Pawar.
Both of them have vied for influence over Thane and Navi Mumbai.
Presently, at least on paper, they are positioned as allies.
‘Do Not Take Me Lightly’: E Shinde
However, underlying tensions persist, a discomfort that appeared to surface last week when Mr. Shinde cautioned critics and adversaries not to underestimate him. The Deputy Chief Minister also reminded everyone of his crucial role in the BJP’s efforts to dismantle Uddhav Thackeray’s government in 2022.
READ | “In 2022 I Changed Government…”: E Shinde As Mahayuti Wobbles
“Those who need to understand should take note. I will carry on with my responsibilities,” Mr. Shinde stated when asked about the intended target of his warning. This comment followed a period of discontent after he was asked to step down as Chief Minister in favor of his predecessor, BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis.
The friction between Mr. Shinde’s Sena and the BJP has persisted since their disagreement over the Chief Minister’s role last year. Mr. Shinde believed he was entitled to the position after receiving positive feedback from the electorate regarding his governance.
Mahayuti Wobbling?
Tensions escalated recently concerning the downgrading or withdrawal of ‘Y’ category security for 55 Shinde Sena MPs and MLAs. NDTV sources indicated that this was the result of a standard security threat evaluation, but the Shinde Sena interpreted it as a slight.
READ | Maharashtra Ruling Alliance Rift Widens? Latest Flashpoint Is…
There has also been disagreement over a series of appointments, including ‘guardian ministers’ for the Raigad and Nashik districts, which are crucial due to the upcoming Kumbh Mela in 2027.
READ | E Shinde’s Absence From Events Adds To Maharashtra Coalition Rift Buzz
Additionally, another potential point of contention has arisen regarding allegations of irregularities in determining the minimum support price (MSP) for farmers during the previous administration led by Mr. Shinde.
Specifically, the Fadnavis government has claimed malpractice related to ‘demands for money by state-level nodal agencies responsible for crop procurement at MSP’ by Shinde Sena leader Abdul Sattar, who previously led the Marketing Ministry.
Mr. Fadnavis has instituted an inquiry, which has not been well-received by Mr. Shinde’s faction.
BJP Still In Control
Any unrest or discord between the Shinde Sena and the BJP is unlikely to compromise the stability of Mr. Fadnavis’ administration. The BJP holds 132 seats in the Assembly, while the NCP faction under second Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar has 41 seats.
This delineates a 28-seat buffer over the majority threshold, even with Mr. Shinde’s 57 MLAs, suggesting that the Sena leader may not possess the direct influence he aspires to hold.
With input from agencies
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