Lawyer Asim Sarode Slams Maharashtra Speaker's Decision on Shiv Sena Leadership

Mumbai, January 14, 2024 - Asim Sarode, the legal representative for the Uddhav Thackeray faction of the Shiv Sena, has launched a scathing critique of the Maharashtra Assembly Speaker, Rahul Narvekar's decision to recognize the Eknath Shinde faction as the legitimate Shiv Sena. Sarode contends that this move violates the Anti-Defection Law, calling it "unconstitutional" and "illegal."

Violation of Anti-Defection Law

Sarode emphatically argues that Narvekar's decision contradicts the Anti-Defection Law, which explicitly mandates that legislators require the support of two-thirds of their original party's legislators to switch parties. Sarode suggests that the Speaker's decision undermines the fundamental principles of democracy by allowing such political maneuvers without the necessary majority support.

Speaker's Unconstitutional Authority

Criticizing the Speaker's authority to declare the leadership of a political party, Sarode asserts that Narvekar overstepped his jurisdiction. According to Sarode, this decision should be left to the party members or decided through appropriate legal channels rather than being unilaterally determined by the Speaker.

Ignoring Supreme Court Directives

Sarode alleges that Narvekar has ignored the directives laid down by the Supreme Court on this matter. By doing so, the lawyer contends, the Speaker has shown a disregard for the country's highest legal authority and undermined the established legal framework.

Democracy Under Threat

The lawyer further argues that Narvekar's decision poses a significant threat to democracy. By allowing legislators to switch parties without facing consequences, Sarode warns that it erodes public trust in the political system. He contends that such decisions could set a dangerous precedent, encouraging opportunistic party-hopping without accountability.

Sarode's Unconventional Analogy

In a metaphorical comparison, Sarode likened Narvekar's decision to a man claiming his goat laid an egg. Drawing a parallel between the absurdity of such a claim and the Speaker's decision, Sarode emphasizes the illogical nature of Narvekar's move and hopes that the public will critically assess the decision.

Supreme Court's Verdict Awaited

As Asim Sarode's criticism intensifies the controversy surrounding the Shiv Sena split, all eyes are now on the Supreme Court, which will ultimately have to decide the validity of Speaker Rahul Narvekar's decision. The outcome of this legal battle holds significant implications for the political landscape in Maharashtra and the interpretation of the Anti-Defection Law.