Uddhav Thackeray Criticizes CM Fadnavis Over Corruption Claims

Uddhav Thackeray, the leader of the Shiv Sena (UBT), has publicly accused Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis of shielding corrupt members within his cabinet. During a press conference on Thursday at the party office located in the Vidhan Bhavan, Thackeray expressed frustration over the increasing allegations of corruption among ministers, as well as the delay in appointing Leaders of Opposition (LoPs) in both the Legislative Assembly and the Council.

Thackeray’s remarks followed the release of videos on social media by fellow party leader Ambadas Danve, which allegedly depicted an MLA from a rival party in possession of large sums of cash. “Videos of their leaders with bundles of cash are coming out. Even then, the chief minister is not taking cognisance of the issue,” Thackeray stated. He added, “I would say the chief minister should start a ‘shielding portfolio’ and take charge of it,” suggesting that Fadnavis was failing to act on serious allegations.

Concerns Over Legislative Positions and Farmer Aid

Thackeray also questioned the delay in appointing LoPs, noting that the Shiv Sena (UBT) had proposed Bhaskar Jadhav for the position months ago, yet no action has been taken. He pointed out, “If the BJP-led Mahayuti government can name two deputy chief ministers, why is it not appointing LoPs?”

In addition to addressing legislative concerns, Thackeray raised issues regarding financial assistance for farmers affected by recent excessive rainfall. He cited a statement from Shivraj Singh Chouhan, the Union Agriculture Minister, who indicated that his ministry had not received any proposal from the Maharashtra government. It was only in late November that the state government forwarded a request for assistance to the Centre.

“We want to know what the state government has sent to the Centre, how much relief is demanded, and who will benefit. The details should be tabled in the legislature so people know whether the central government will help,” Thackeray emphasized. He urged the government to ensure that farmers receive crop insurance benefits and to address agricultural issues during the current legislative session.

The ongoing tensions within Maharashtra’s political landscape highlight the scrutiny facing the Fadnavis administration as allegations of corruption and governance delays continue to mount. Thackeray’s criticisms serve as a reminder of the complex dynamics in play as political parties navigate the challenges of responding to both public concerns and internal party pressures.