Sanjay Raut, a prominent leader of Shiv Sena (UBT) and Rajya Sabha MP, voiced serious concerns regarding the political landscape of Maharashtra on Saturday. He highlighted the ruling parties’ failure to appoint Leaders of the Opposition (LoP) in the state legislature, suggesting that this absence signifies a troubling trend that undermines democratic processes.
While addressing the media, Raut stressed it is both a democratic necessity and a constitutional obligation to have a Leader of Opposition in various legislative bodies, including municipal corporations, state assemblies, and Parliament. He called the current situation, where Maharashtra lacks a Leader of Opposition in both legislative Houses, a cause for shame.
Raut alleged that over the past decade, systematic efforts have aimed to obstruct the appointment of LoPs through electoral manipulation and exerted political pressure. He remarked, “The BJP has consistently tried to weaken and insult the institution of the Leader of Opposition.” He added that the ongoing legislative affairs without an LoP suggest a palpable fear among ruling parties regarding democratic scrutiny.
The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader underscored Maharashtra’s rich democratic tradition, emphasizing that the appointment of Leaders of the Opposition has historically occurred, even when opposition parties held a smaller seat count. “The BJP used to demand the LoP position back when they were in the minority in Parliament. Now, this tradition is being deliberately dismantled,” he stated.
The opposition parties, including Shiv Sena (UBT) and the Congress, have formally demanded the appointment of Leaders of Opposition in both Houses of the Maharashtra legislature. The Shiv Sena (UBT) has nominated Bhaskar Jadhav for the Legislative Assembly, while the Congress has put forth Satej Patil for the Legislative Council.
Additionally, Raut directed criticism toward Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule regarding his remarks on the potential formation of a separate Vidarbha state. Raut accused him of being backed by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in this proposal.
“Shiv Sena (UBT) will staunchly oppose any endeavors to divide Maharashtra. The unity of our state is non-negotiable,” Raut emphatically stated.
During his discourse, Raut also referred to the recent Vande Mataram debate in Parliament, noting that the ruling BJP seemed unsettled by the contributions of Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. He expressed optimism, claiming, “The debate illuminated the vitality of democracy, showcasing the engagement and performance of our leaders.”
Raut reiterated the need for a discussion on the Maharashtra Geet in the state legislature, arguing that this would stimulate an important debate regarding the significant leaders and movements that have historically shaped Maharashtra and Mumbai.
