Maharashtra legislators criticise UK study tour over poor planning

Group picture of the delegation in the United Kingdom. Pic/By Special Arrangement

A study tour of 17 Maharashtra legislators to the United Kingdom has sparked criticism from some participants over logistics and the academic value of the visit. Several members privately expressed disappointment, saying the programme did not meet expectations of a structured legislative exchange.

The delegation, which included MLAs (Members of the Legislative Assembly) and MLCs (Members of the Legislative Council), attended the "Future Leaders Programme on Sustainable Leadership and Global Citizenship" organised by the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

The programme ran from February 15 to 21, 2026, across Lampeter, Cardiff, and London, featuring academic sessions, lectures, and institutional visits aimed at familiarising legislators with international governance practices and leadership frameworks.

Parliament visit

Legislators said the UK Parliament visit, expected to be a highlight, was limited. While they received a guided tour and briefing on parliamentary functions, there was no opportunity to interact with MPs or members of the House of Lords. "We were mainly shown the areas where Parliament functions, no parliamentarian was present" one delegate said.

Accommodation issues

Members dissatisfied with accommodation arrangements, opted to move to facilities at their own expense.

Programme concerns

Some felt the programme benefited the university more, describing it as resembling a revenue model rather than an educative experience.

Tour members:

>> Ram Shinde (Chairman of the Legislative Council)
>> Neelam Gorhe (Deputy Chairperson of the Legislative Council)
>> Aditi Tatkare (Minister of the Women and Child Welfare department)
>> Vishwajeet Kadam (MLA)
>> Sneha Dube (MLA)
>> Babasaheb Deshmukh (MLA)
>> Varun Sardesai (MLA)
>> Namita Mundada (MLA)
>> Sumeet Wankhede (MLA)
>> Vikram Pachphute (MLA)
>> Manisha Kayande (MLC)
>> Niranjan Davkhare (MLC)
>> Parinya Fuke (MLC)
>> Vikrant Patil (MLC)
>> Amit Gorkhe (MLC)
>> Vikram Kale (MLC)
>> Yogesh Tilekar (MLC)