Mumbai: Amidst the BJP’s triumph in the Hindi heartland, the victorious MahaYuti alliance, comprising BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar-led Nationalist Congress Party, is set to face a demoralized opposition during the winter session in Nagpur. The MahaYuti aims to capitalize on the political landscape, celebrating its success and highlighting the state government’s initiatives across various sectors, with a focus on achieving a $1 trillion economy by 2027-28.
However, the opposition, still reeling from the BJP’s victories, is determined to confront the MahaYuti government on pressing issues. These include the escalating farmers’ distress, a surge in crimes – particularly atrocities against women and children, deteriorating law and order, and the state’s diminishing appeal for investments.
The ongoing Maratha-OBC reservation controversy is expected to take center stage inside and outside the state legislature. Pro-Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange Patil has given the government until December 24 to decide on the Maratha reservation, advocating for Kunbi certificates for Maratha communities beyond the Marathwada region. Yet, veteran OBC leader and minister Chhagan Bhujbal opposes this move, citing potential impacts on the existing OBC community quota.
With over 200 legislators in the 288-member Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, the MahaYuti has devised a joint action plan to counter opposition concerns. Emphasizing their outreach efforts through “Shashan Aplya Dari” (government at your doorstep), they plan to increase financial aid to farmers affected by natural calamities, enhance health facilities, and steer Maharashtra towards a $1 trillion economy through strategic decisions.
The MahaYuti’s leadership, including Shinde, DCMs Devendra Fadnavis, and Ajit Pawar, will seize every opportunity to expose the opposition’s lack of unity and mock their attempts to corner the state government.
In contrast, opposition leaders Vijay Wadettiwar, Ambadas Danve, and Jayant Patil vow to expose the government’s neglect of farmers grappling with financial stress after unseasonal rains. They also plan to scrutinize lapses in the law and order situation, leveraging the recent National Crime Record Bureau report painting a grim picture for Maharashtra. Additionally, they intend to question the Dharavi redevelopment project awarded to the Adani Group, especially after policy changes, including adjustments in the transfer of development rights. Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena announces a march to the Adani Group office on December 16, demanding justice for slum dwellers and small industrial units.
