Maharashtra Congress chief Harshwardhan Sapkal. File pic
Maharashtra Congress President Harshwardhan Sapkal on Thursday accused the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) led-Mahayuti Government of showing "complete disregard" for the winter session in Nagpur by limiting it to just one week and violating the long-standing Vidarbha Agreement. He alleged that despite serious issues concerning farmers, workers, unemployment, law and order, corruption and women's safety, the government had avoided meaningful discussion.
Speaking to the media at the Nagpur Assembly complex, Sapkal said the ruling alliance displayed "no seriousness" towards the functioning of the legislature.
"Instead of addressing crucial public concerns, the House is busy discussing catching dogs and releasing leopards. This shows the government's priorities," he said.
Sapkal further alleged that corruption had surged under the BJP-Mahayuti regime. "Every day, new cases of corruption are coming to light. Money is flowing unchecked. Corruption has become the government's motto. The journey from âna khaunga, na khane dunga' has now reached âmil baat ke khayenge'," he said, demanding a white paper on corruption in Maharashtra and a full debate in the legislature.
He criticised the ruling party for allegedly disrupting proceedings whenever serious topics were raised. "Even during important discussions, members of the government are seen cracking jokes. Democracy is being strangled. Some of their own members are raising corruption allegations. The government must open its eyes," Sapkal said.
On the issue of recognising the Leader of Opposition (LoP), Sapkal accused the government of selectively applying rules. "They cite the 10% rule for the LoP in the Assembly. If that is the case, in the Upper House we do have the required 10% strength and have submitted a proposal. Why is the LoP not being appointed there?" he asked.
"Democracy functions on traditions, conventions and established practices. Proposals have been submitted in both Houses, yet the government refuses to act constitutionally. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is running the legislature in a âhum kare so kayda' manner. He must respect democratic norms," Sapkal added.
He said granting the Opposition Leader post was "a matter of constitutional duty and political ethics", but alleged that Fadnavis was evading this responsibility.
