Mumbai’s political arena is heating up as the Maharashtra budget session kicks off with a major controversy. Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has unleashed a scathing attack on the Mahayuti government, accusing it of undermining democracy by running the legislative houses without an official Leader of Opposition.
In a fiery press conference on Monday, Raut targeted Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and his alliance partners. ‘Operating the assembly without a Leader of Opposition is a mockery of the Constitution,’ he declared. Raut emphasized that in parliamentary democracy, the opposition leader plays a crucial role in holding the government accountable and maintaining checks and balances.
The absence of this key position in both the Vidhan Sabha and Vidhan Parishad has left a void, Raut argued. He questioned why the government, despite its clear majority, is reluctant to appoint an opposition leader. ‘This is not just unethical; it’s a direct assault on constitutional values,’ he added.
Raut pointed out that such a situation is unprecedented in Maharashtra’s history, especially during the crucial budget session. He accused the BJP-led coalition of dodging the issue under technical pretexts for several sessions now. ‘They fear real scrutiny,’ Raut charged, warning that the opposition would pursue legal remedies and take the matter to the people if unresolved.
Highlighting the broader implications, Raut said the lack of an official opposition voice risks authoritarian tendencies and disrupts institutional equilibrium. He urged the government to respect democratic traditions and fill the post immediately to restore the house’s dignity.
As the session progresses, this standoff could derail proceedings, with opposition parties gearing up for intense debates and protests. Raut’s offensive sets the tone for a combative legislative period in the state.