Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) chief Raj Thackeray has lost relevance and is not needed by the ruling Mahayuti, Union minister Ramdas Athawale said on Sunday, reported news agency PTI. Athawale asserted that Thackeray has lost significance within the ruling Mahayuti alliance following a disappointing performance in the November 20 Maharashtra Assembly Election, where MNS did not secure any seats. In an address to reporters in Nashik, Athawale emphasised that with his party's involvement in the alliance, there is no remaining space for Thackeray. "Raj Thackeray thought power could not come without him. His dreams have been shattered. With me in the alliance, there is no place for Raj Thackeray. He changes his strategies and the colour of his party flag. It reflects his diminishing relevance," said Athawale, whose Republican Party of India (A) has been with the BJP-led NDA for over a decade, stated PTI. Athawale expressed confidence that his party would achieve representation in the government led by Devendra Fadnavis. He also slammed the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition for attributing their electoral defeat to alleged "misuse" of EVMs and said the opposition was "disrespecting democracy by making such excuses". Hope Mahayuti govt uses 'unbelievable' mandate in right way for Maharashtra: Raj Thackeray Maharashtra Navnirman Sena President Raj Thackeray on Thursday hoped the Mahayuti Government makes use of its "unbelievable" mandate effectively for the benefit of the state, its Marathi-speaking populace, and the preservation of Marathi language and culture, reported news agency PTI. In a message shared on X (formerly twitter), Thackeray extended his good wishes to Devendra Fadnavis, expressing belief that he should have been given the opportunity to serve as Chief Minister in both the 2019 and 2022 elections. आज माझे स्नेही आणि भारतीय जनता पक्षाचे महाराष्ट्रातील नेते श्री. देवेंद्र फडणवीस यांनी तिसऱ्यांदा मुख्यमंत्रीपदाची शपथ घेतली, याबद्दल त्यांचं अभिनंदन. २०१९ ला खरंतर ही संधी त्यांना मिळायला हवी होती, पण तेंव्हा आणि पुढे २०२२ मध्ये जे घडलं त्यामुळे ती संधी हुकली. असो, पण यावेळेस… — Raj Thackeray (@RajThackeray) December 5, 2024 Despite the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) securing the highest number of seats in those years, Fadnavis was unable to return to the chief ministerial role. "This time, people have given an unbelievable mandate to the Mahayuti, more so to the leadership of Devendra Fadnavis. I hope this is rightly used for the state, the Marathi people, the language and culture," Thackeray wrote in Marathi. The recent assembly elections saw the BJP winning 132 out of 288 seats, with significant contributions from its allies. The Shiv Sena secured 57 seats and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) garnered 41 seats. The opposition coalition, led by Shiv Sena (UBT), won 20 seats, while the Congress and the Sharad Pawar faction of the NCP received 16 and 10 seats, respectively. (With inputs from PTI)
08 December,2024 05:41 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentBharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Pravin Darekar on Sunday stated that Sharad Pawar’s support for West Bengal Chief Minister (CM) Mamata Banerjee’s willingness to lead the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) bloc indicated that the Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief wanted to convey that Rahul Gandhi’s leadership is "incapable" and that Congress is now "unable" to lead the opposition alliance. "I think this means that Pawar Sahab wants to say that Rahul Gandhi's leadership is not capable and Congress can't lead now. So, Pawar Sahab's direction is towards one side and words on the other side. Only time will tell what is in his mind," Darekar told ANI. On Saturday, Sharad Pawar acknowledged Banerjee's leadership potential, emphasising her prominence as a national leader and the competence of her party's representatives in Parliament. "Yes, certainly [she is capable of leading the alliance]. She is a prominent leader of this nation... she has that capability. The elected leaders she sent to Parliament are responsible, dutiful, and well-aware people. Therefore, she has the right to say so," Sharad Pawar had stated, expressing his support to Banerjee, ANI reported. Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) leader Sanjay Raut also expressed support for Banerjee's role in the alliance, saying that his party wants her to be a major partner. He added that his party would soon meet her in Kolkata. "We know Mamata ji's opinion. We also want her to be a major partner of the INDIA bloc. Whether it is Mamata Banerjee, Arvind Kejriwal, or Shiv Sena, we are all together. We will soon go to talk to Mamata Banerjee in Kolkata," Raut said at a press conference. On December 3, Trinamool Congress's (TMC) Member of Parliament (MP) Kirti Azad responded to suggestions by party leaders that Banerjee should lead the INDIA bloc following Congress's defeat in the Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024. Azad praised the West Bengal CM, saying, "Mamata Banerjee has a 100 per cent record. Whenever Prime Minister Narendra Modi faced a humiliating defeat, it was only in West Bengal... Whenever he comes to insult Bengal and its honour, her vote share increases." He further said that Banerjee is known for her articulate views and that "She is a very senior leader. She speaks clearly. She [Mamata Banerjee] resides in every household in West Bengal, in every household in the country... Mamata Banerjee is someone who takes everyone together. She calls people only after making preparations and taking her time," he added. Meanwhile, Darekar also criticised the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) legislators after they initially refused and later agreed to take the oath, saying the opposition is continuing its drama, ANI reported. He stated that this is an insult to the people of Maharashtra. "Opposition continues its drama. If they didn’t want to take oath [as legislators], why are they doing it today? I think they could not do the full drama. The first part of their drama ended up being a flop show and it ended... This is an insult to the people... They won’t forgive them," he said. (With ANI inputs)
08 December,2024 05:01 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentShiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray said that the Maharashtra unit of Samajwadi Party (SP) behaves sometimes like the "B team of BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party)." The development comes after SP pulled out of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance on Thursday, citing several concerns. "I would not like to comment much on them [SP's Maharashtra unit]. (Party's national chief) Akhilesh Yadav is fighting his fight but the SP here [in Maharashtra] sometimes behaves like the B team of BJP...Our Hindutva is clear...Our Hindutva is about 'Hriday mein Ram aur haath ko kaam'...Our Hindutva is about taking everyone together..." Thackeray said while addressing reporters, according to news agency ANI. On Thursday, SP Maharashtra President Abu Azmi expressed dissatisfaction over the "communal remarks" made by Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) over the Babri Masjid demolition and announced the party's withdrawal from the alliance. He also criticised the MVA partners over a lack of coordination with other parties during the Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024. In a post on X, Azmi stated that the party had quit the alliance in the state because of the remarks made by Shiv Sena (UBT). "Samajwadi Party was, is and will always be against communalism. SP leaves Maha Vikas Aghadi because of Shiv Sena (UBT)." Azmi was referring to the remarks made by the Shiv Sena (UBT) in which the party had posted a picture of the Babri Masjid and late party chief Balasaheb Thackeray, expressing solidarity with the demolition of the mosque. Thackeray also spoke about Nationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar's 'anti-EVM (electronic voting machine)' event at Markadwadi village in Solapur district and said that conducting a mock poll there would not alter the mandate or the government in the state. INDIA bloc fighting for Constitution, democracy: Aaditya Thackeray In a scathing attack on the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader stated that although India operates on the principle of 'Satyameva Jayate (truth always triumphs)', it is the CEC who seems to be working on the principle of 'Sattameva Jayate'. "...The public's only demand is to have a mock poll there on ballot paper. Mock polls won’t change anything, neither the government nor the EVM mandate...But we would know the truth. This country runs on Satyameva Jayate, not Sattameva Jayate. It is the Chief Election Commissioner who is working on Sattameva Jayate," said Thackeray, according to ANI. Amid Mamata Banerjee's reported statement on "willing to lead INDIA ( Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance)," the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader said that the alliance is fighting for the Constitution and the voices of the people and that the West Bengal Chief Minister is a good leader. "INDIA is fighting for the Constitution of our country, for our democracy. Be it in the Lok Sabha or different states, our alliance is fighting for our Constitution and the voices of the people. Mamata Didi is very close to us, she is a good leader. (Former Delhi CM) Kejriwal Sahab will enter the election field in Delhi now. So, all these leaders should speak with each other," Thackeray said, according to ANI. In the Maharashtra Assembly Election 2024, the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance achieved a decisive victory, securing a landslide win with 235 seats. The results marked a significant milestone for BJP, which emerged as the single-largest party with 132 seats. Its allies: Shiv Sena and NCP also made notable gains, securing 57 and 41 seats, respectively. MVA suffered a significant setback, with Shiv Sena (UBT) winning only 20 seats, followed by the Congress (16) and NCP (Sharadchandra Pawar) securing just 10 seats. (With ANI inputs)
08 December,2024 03:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentA kidnapping and extortion case involving actor-comedian Sunil Pal has been registered by Mumbai Police, following a complaint filed by Pal. The case, which was initially registered at Santacruz police station, has now been transferred to Uttar Pradesh authorities, as per Pal's statement. The comedian alleged that he was abducted while travelling to Uttarakhand for a show, and subsequently extorted for a large sum of money. According to an official from the Santacruz police station, Pal's statement was recorded on Thursday, in which he detailed the shocking events leading up to his abduction. The comedian claimed that while on his way to Uttarakhand, he stopped for snacks at a roadside stall. It was then that a man, who allegedly posed as a fan, forced Pal into a car. The abductors then demanded a ransom of Rs 20 lakh for his release. Pal further revealed that he was eventually freed after managing to arrange Rs 8 lakh, which he borrowed from friends. However, the ordeal did not end there, as Pal was abandoned by the roadside in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. After his release, he managed to make his way to Delhi airport and took a flight back to Mumbai. The comedian’s wife had earlier filed a missing person’s report when he was uncontactable. The police have yet to make any arrests in the case, as investigations are ongoing. The case was transferred to the Lal Kurti police station in Meerut, as that was the location where Pal claimed to have been released by his abductors. Despite the traumatic incident, Sunil Pal, known for his comedic roles, has not expressed any major injuries from the ordeal. The Mumbai Police are working in close coordination with their Uttar Pradesh counterparts to investigate the extortion aspect of the case and to track down the individuals involved. As per PTI, the authorities are looking into the details provided by Pal and continuing their investigation to identify the perpetrators. No further information has been disclosed at this stage regarding the suspects or potential arrests. (With inputs from PTI)
08 December,2024 02:28 PM IST | MumbaiMaha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) leaders on Sunday convened a significant meeting in Mumbai to discuss pressing issues following their recent electoral setbacks, reported ANI. Key figures who attended the meeting include Aaditya Thackeray, Vijay Wadettiwar, Sunil Prabhu, Jitendra Awhad, Nitin Raut, and Nana Patole. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray on Saturday announced that the party's winning MLAs would refrain from taking the oath of office in the ongoing special session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. Aaditya Thackeray also expressed skepticism regarding the legitimacy of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). "Today we have decided that our (Shiv Sena UBT) winning MLAs will not take the oath. If this was the mandate of the people, people would have been happy and celebrated it. However, there was no such celebration or enthusiasm from the public. We have doubts about EVM," Aaditya Thackeray said. This meeting comes in the wake of disappointing results for the MVA in the Maharashtra Assembly Election held on November 20. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led Mahayuti alliance achieved a resounding victory, securing 235 seats, with the BJP alone winning 132 seats. The Shiv Sena (UBT) garnered 20 seats, while the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) from the Sharad Pawar faction claimed 10 seats. Congress, a major partner in the MVA, only managed to win 16 seats, marking a significant decline. In response to the electoral outcome, Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal announced a comprehensive review of their performance. During a recent Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting, which saw the participation of 81 members, it was decided to establish internal committees at the block and district levels to address "electoral performance and organisational issues." Venugopal stated, "We analysed the performance of the party in the recently concluded Assembly election. The CWC has decided to constitute internal committees to look into matters related to electoral performance and organisational issues in the blocks and districts." Mahayuti leaders slam Opposition for misleading people about EVMs The ruling Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra criticised opposition parties for allegedly misleading the public regarding EVMs following the recent assembly elections, reported news agency PTI. Shiv Sena leader Uday Samant criticised the opposition's double standards regarding the oath-taking ceremony. "It is because of the MVA's double standards that the Samajwadi Party has parted from the alliance. Yesterday, they boycotted the oath-taking ceremony, and today, they will hopefully take oath as members, which will again highlight their double standards," he said. He claimed the opposition had come up with a "fake narrative" intended to distract people from their electoral defeat. (With inputs from ANI, PTI)
08 December,2024 02:20 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMaharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has hailed the state as the driving force behind India’s economic growth, expressing confidence that Maharashtra could soon become the first trillion-dollar sub-economy in the country. Speaking at the CNBC-TV18 India Business Leader Awards (IBLA) held in Mumbai on Saturday, Fadnavis emphasised Maharashtra’s position as a business powerhouse and a key player in India’s economic landscape. "We are back and we are back with a bang," he said, addressing the business leaders at the event. Thanking the people of Maharashtra for their overwhelming support in the recent state elections, the Chief Minister described the mandate won by the Mahayuti coalition as "unprecedented" and expressed gratitude for the responsibility entrusted to his government to propel the state to greater economic heights. Reflecting on the election results, Fadnavis admitted the massive victory came as a surprise, attributing it to the success of the government's initiatives and promises fulfilled. "Maharashtra followed the Prime Minister’s message, ‘ek hai toh safe hai,’ which worked like magic during the elections," he added. Fadnavis further emphasised his optimism about Maharashtra's economic future, pointing out that the state had already secured 52 per cent of India’s total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in the first half of the fiscal year. He also noted that Maharashtra had been overtaken by Karnataka when the BJP lost its government in the state, but asserted that Maharashtra’s advantages, including Mumbai as the country’s financial hub, set it apart from other states like Gujarat. The Chief Minister highlighted the development of a new business district near Navi Mumbai, which he called "third Mumbai," a zone three times the size of the current Mumbai. "This will be the next business capital of India," he said, adding that the government is working to make the state more business-friendly and hassle-free for investors. Fadnavis also mentioned significant infrastructure projects underway in Maharashtra, including the Vadhavan port, which he described as one of the largest ports in India, set to transform the maritime economy. He also noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced that a third airport would be built at the Vadhavan port, further strengthening Maharashtra’s strategic infrastructure. The Chief Minister’s remarks at the event painted a picture of a Maharashtra poised for tremendous growth, with ambitious projects aimed at cementing its role as a leader in India’s economic development. Fadnavis concluded by expressing confidence that the state was on track for a record year in FDI, setting the stage for a new era of growth and prosperity. As per ANI, the Chief Minister's vision for Maharashtra underlined the state's immense potential and its strategic focus on business expansion and infrastructure development. (With inputs from ANI)
08 December,2024 01:48 PM IST | MumbaiThe ruling Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra criticised opposition parties for allegedly misleading the public regarding electronic voting machines (EVMs) following the recent assembly elections, reported news agency PTI. The elections held on November 20 resulted in a significant victory for the Mahayuti alliance, which includes the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP, winning 230 out of 288 seats. In contrast, the opposition coalition Maha Vikas Aghadi, which has Congress, Shiv Sena (UBT), and NCP (SP) secured only 46 seats. The opposition bloc has since claimed irregularities in the EVMs and demanded the use of ballot papers, stated PTI. Shiv Sena leader Uday Samant criticised the opposition's double standards regarding the oath-taking ceremony. "It is because of the MVA's double standards that the Samajwadi Party has parted from the alliance. Yesterday, they boycotted the oath-taking ceremony, and today, they will hopefully take oath as members, which will again highlight their double standards," he said. He claimed the opposition had come up with a "fake narrative" intended to distract people from their electoral defeat. Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule echoed Samant's sentiments, expressing disappointment over Sharad Pawar, the leader of the NCP (SP), for allegedly misleading the public. "We respect Pawar, but he is spreading falsehood. He is confusing people. The opposition is hiding its failure," he said while replying to a query on the senior politician's statement expressing surprise over the opposition getting more votes and winning fewer seats, stated PTI. Jitendra Awhad, a leader within NCP (SP), meanwhile, highlighted ongoing tensions in the Markadwadi village in the Malshiras assembly constituency in Solapur, where villagers have protested for a "repoll" using ballot papers. Markadwadi: Police book over 200 for attempting repoll and spreading misinformation about EVM The police booked more than 200 people from Markadwadi village and nearby areas in Solapur for allegedly trying to conduct a “re-election” using ballot papers on Tuesday. The police officials stated that they were charged for allegedly spreading misinformation about EVMs. The move by Markadwadi residents was illegal as there is no provision for conducting a re-poll using ballot papers under any situation, said the authorities. (With agency inputs)
08 December,2024 01:29 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentNationalist Congress Party (SP) chief Sharad Pawar has supported West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's expressed willingness to lead the opposing INDIA bloc, reported news agency PTI. Speaking to reporters in Kolhapur on Saturday, Pawar praised Banerjee as a capable leader, affirming her right to seek a leadership role within the alliance. Earlier this week, Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee, had indicated her readiness to balance her responsibilities as both the chief minister of West Bengal and the potential leader of the INDIA bloc. This announcement comes amid rising tensions within the opposition coalition, particularly following recent electoral challenges faced by the Congress Party in Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, and Maharashtra. Pawar commented on Banerjee’s capabilities, stating, "She is a capable leader in the country and has the right to say it. The MPs she has sent to the Parliament are hardworking and aware." Willing to lead INDIA bloc if given opportunity: Mamata West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee expressed dissatisfaction with the functioning of the opposition INDIA bloc, signaling her intent to take charge of the alliance if given an opportunity. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo said she could manage the dual responsibility of running the opposition front while continuing her role as the chief minister of West Bengal. "I had formed the INDIA bloc, now it is up to those leading the front to manage it. If they can't run the show, what can I do? I would just say that everyone needs to be taken along," she said in an interview with Bengali news channel on Friday, reported PTI. Asked why she is not taking the charge of the bloc, given her credentials as a strong anti-BJP force, Banerjee said, "If given the opportunity I would ensure its smooth functioning," reported PTI. "I don't want to go outside West Bengal, but I can run it from here," she said, reported PTI. The INDIA bloc, formed to counter the BJP, comprises over two dozen opposition parties. However, internal differences and a lack of coordination have drawn criticism from various quarters. Her remarks come days after her party MP Kalyan Banerjee called on the Congress and other INDIA bloc allies to set aside their egos and recognise Mamata Banerjee as the leader of the opposition alliance. (With inputs from PTI)
08 December,2024 01:24 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondentMembers of the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance took their oaths as Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) on Sunday in the newly formed Maharashtra assembly. This marked their participation after boycotting the oath-taking ceremony on Saturday, which was the first day of the special three-day session of the assembly. According to PTI, the opposition members, comprising the Congress, the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction), and the Shiv Sena (UBT), had abstained from Saturday's proceedings, alleging irregularities in the recently concluded state elections. Their primary grievance was over alleged misuse of electronic voting machines (EVMs), a contentious issue raised repeatedly by opposition parties in India. Prominent leaders who took their oaths on Sunday included Congress members Nana Patole, Vijay Wadettiwar, and Amit Deshmukh, along with NCP (SP) leader Jitendra Awhad and Aaditya Thackeray of the Shiv Sena (UBT). The assembly reconvened for the day after Saturday's disruptions, and the opposition leaders took the opportunity to formally assume their roles in the legislature. PTI reports that the opposition's boycott on Saturday was not solely limited to EVM-related allegations. The protest also extended to issues concerning Markadwadi village in the Malshiras assembly constituency in Solapur district. Villagers in Markadwadi had demanded a fresh election using traditional ballot papers, citing alleged discrepancies during the recent polls. The situation escalated when curfews were imposed in the area, and several residents were detained, leading to strong reactions from the opposition parties. During Saturday's boycott, opposition leaders voiced their concerns over the treatment of the villagers, claiming that their arrests and the enforcement of curfews were attempts to suppress dissent and legitimate electoral grievances. They also demanded greater transparency and accountability in the electoral process, reiterating their long-standing demand for a return to paper ballots. As per PTI, the oath-taking ceremony on Sunday allowed the opposition to re-enter the legislative process while continuing to voice their objections to the state government’s actions during and after the elections. The MVA has signalled its intention to take up these issues during the ongoing assembly session. This three-day special session marks a crucial period in Maharashtra’s political landscape, as the opposition and ruling coalition prepare for heightened debates on governance and accountability. (With inputs from PTI)
08 December,2024 12:56 PM IST | MumbaiA 33-year-old man from Dombivli in Maharashtra's Thane district has reportedly fallen victim to cyber fraud, losing ₹21.9 lakh in a fraudulent Bitcoin investment scheme, according to PTI reports. The complainant, whose identity remains undisclosed, was contacted via an international phone number. The caller, posing as a representative of a lucrative trading platform, persuaded him to invest in Bitcoin, claiming substantial returns, a police official revealed. The victim began transferring money on November 8 and continued to do so until December 3, trusting the false assurances provided by the fraudsters. In total, he made transactions amounting to ₹21.9 lakh during this period. However, when the victim attempted to withdraw his supposed earnings or sought updates on his investments, the fraudsters stopped responding to his calls and messages. It was only then that he realised he had been duped, as per PTI. Following the incident, the man lodged a formal complaint with the local police. The authorities have since registered a case under relevant sections of the Information Technology Act. A police official confirmed that an investigation into the matter is currently underway, with efforts being made to trace the origin of the fraudulent calls and identify the individuals or syndicates responsible for the scam. This case highlights the growing prevalence of cyber fraud involving cryptocurrency investments, where unsuspecting individuals are lured with the promise of high returns. According to PTI, police officials have issued repeated advisories urging the public to exercise caution and verify the legitimacy of any investment platforms before making transactions. Cryptocurrency-related frauds have surged in recent years, with fraudsters often exploiting the lack of regulatory oversight and the complexity of digital currencies to deceive individuals. Victims are frequently targeted through social engineering tactics, including cold calls, phishing emails, or fake online platforms. As per PTI reports, the Thane police have reminded residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity promptly. They also encouraged people to seek advice from credible financial advisors and to avoid transferring funds to unknown parties, particularly in international dealings. The investigation into the case is ongoing, and further details are awaited. (With inputs from PTI)
08 December,2024 12:42 PM IST | MumbaiRahul Narwekar, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA from Colaba, has officially filed his nomination for the position of Speaker in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly. The nomination was submitted on Sunday, with senior leaders of the ruling alliance in attendance. Narwekar, who served as Speaker in the previous Assembly, is poised to return to the prestigious role. His nomination process was supported by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar. Other prominent BJP leaders, including state party president Chandrashekar Bawankule and senior leader Chandrakant Patil, were also present during the filing. As of now, Narwekar remains the sole candidate for the Speaker’s position, as no opposition nominations have been filed. The election, scheduled for Monday, is expected to be a formality, with Narwekar likely to be elected unopposed. Meanwhile, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition has decided not to contest Narwekar’s candidature for the Speaker’s post. Instead, the MVA has demanded key Assembly roles, including the position of Leader of the Opposition and Deputy Speaker. This signals a potential shift towards ensuring a balanced representation within the state legislature. Narwekar’s nomination reflects a continued alignment within the ruling BJP-Shiv Sena alliance, underscoring their consolidated hold over the Assembly. As Speaker, Narwekar is expected to play a crucial role in maintaining legislative decorum and addressing key state issues during his tenure. The official election outcome will be confirmed on Monday, marking another chapter in Maharashtra’s dynamic political landscape.
08 December,2024 12:29 PM IST | Mumbai | Dharmendra JoreADVERTISEMENT
