In a significant political maneuver, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has assumed stricter control over the Urban Development department, curbing the influence of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s faction. The move has not only altered the internal balance of power within the ruling Mahayuti alliance but has also sparked visible tensions among its key players.
Shinde Camp Expresses Displeasure
The Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), which had long considered the Urban Development department one of its strongest bastions, has reacted with clear discomfort to the shift in authority. The department played a crucial role in executing infrastructure and municipal projects, offering both administrative leverage and political visibility. Fadnavis’ decision is seen by many as a direct effort to reduce the autonomy of Shinde’s camp.
Rising Tensions Over Fund Allocation
Compounding the situation is a growing controversy over alleged irregularities in state fund allocation. Accusations have surfaced that funds intended for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) welfare were redirected to the state-run "Ladki Bahin Yojana," a scheme aimed at empowering women. This diversion has drawn sharp criticism from political allies and adversaries alike.
Shiv Sena Launches Public Criticism
Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Shirsat has publicly criticized the Finance Department, which operates under the leadership of Deputy CM Ajit Pawar. Shirsat alleged that the redirection of SC/ST funds is not only illegal but also a betrayal of the principles of social justice. His open attack has raised eyebrows within the alliance, as such criticism is typically reserved for internal discussions.
Demand for Transparency in Governance
Shirsat also stressed the need for greater transparency in how major financial decisions are made, asserting that key departments should not be bypassed. He warned that such unilateral actions risk undermining the credibility and cohesion of the ruling coalition.
Ajit Pawar Defends His Department
In response, Ajit Pawar advised ministers to voice their concerns during cabinet meetings rather than through the media. He further claimed that allocations for SC/ST welfare have actually increased under the current budget, dismissing the allegations of misappropriation as misleading and politically motivated.
Cracks Appear in Mahayuti Alliance
These developments point to a deepening power struggle within the Mahayuti alliance, which comprises the BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and NCP (Ajit Pawar faction). What was once portrayed as a unified front is increasingly being perceived as a coalition under internal strain, with each faction jostling for control and public influence.
Fadnavis’ Calculated Assertion of Power
Observers suggest that Fadnavis’ move to centralize control over Urban Development is a carefully calculated step aimed at reasserting BJP’s dominance within the alliance. By tightening his grip on a key department, Fadnavis appears to be both curbing dissent and positioning his party as the central force in Maharashtra’s governance, especially as the state gears up for the next round of political contests.
Post a Comment