Summary: Tensions rise in Maharashtra’s Mahayuti alliance as Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena and the BJP clash over leadership authority, ‘Janta Darbar’ events, and MSP allegations. Will this political turmoil reshape state governance?
The ruling Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra is once again facing internal turbulence, with tensions flaring between Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction and its senior ally, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The latest rift has been fueled by a series of ‘Janta Darbar’ townhall meetings and an ongoing controversy over Minimum Support Price (MSP) allegations, further exposing cracks within the coalition.
‘Janta Darbar’ Controversy: A Direct Challenge to Shinde’s Authority?
The political rift gained traction after Ganesh Naik, a leader within the ruling alliance, announced his second ‘Janta Darbar’ in Thane—Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s stronghold. Large hoardings and banners promoting the event, set for Monday, sparked speculation about a direct challenge to Shinde’s influence in the region, where he also serves as the ‘guardian minister.’
Naik, who had previously held a similar event in Vashi, Navi Mumbai, on February 3, attempted to downplay its political significance, stating that the sole purpose was to address people’s concerns. However, the event’s timing and scale have raised eyebrows.
Adding to the tension, Thane MP Naresh Mhaske, a loyalist of Shinde’s Shiv Sena, sought to diffuse the situation by stating, “Why should we object when people meet their political leaders?” Yet, political observers note that the history of rivalry between Naik and Shinde dates back years, when Naik was part of Sharad Pawar’s Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and Shinde was with the undivided Shiv Sena under Uddhav Thackeray’s leadership.
Eknath Shinde’s Warning: ‘Do Not Take Me Lightly’
The internal discord within the ruling alliance became even more evident last week when Eknath Shinde issued a stern warning, “Do not take me lightly,” a message seemingly aimed at both allies and rivals. The warning was a reminder of his instrumental role in toppling Uddhav Thackeray’s government in 2022.
In response to questions about the intended recipient of his remark, Shinde cryptically stated, “Those who need to understand will understand. I will continue to do my work.” This statement was seen as a veiled message to both his critics within the BJP and dissidents within his own faction.
The tensions have been simmering since the 2024 Assembly elections, when disagreements arose over who should be the Chief Minister. While Shinde had expected to retain his position due to perceived public support, BJP leaders, including Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis, have remained dominant in decision-making.
Security Cover Snub: Another Flashpoint
A fresh round of friction emerged when security cover for 55 MLAs and MPs from Shinde’s Sena was either withdrawn or downgraded. Official sources described this as a routine reassessment based on security threats, but Shinde’s camp saw it as a political snub and a reminder that the BJP still calls the shots.
MSP Controversy: Allegations Against Shinde’s Minister
The latest and perhaps most serious blow to alliance unity comes in the form of corruption allegations tied to the state’s MSP policy under the previous government, which was also led by Shinde.
Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis has ordered an inquiry into allegations that state-level nodal agencies demanded bribes for crop procurement at MSP rates. The controversy involves Shinde Sena leader Abdul Sattar, who was in charge of the Marketing Ministry at the time. The investigation has further strained relations between the BJP and Shinde’s faction, as the latter perceives it as a targeted attack on their leadership.
Is the Mahayuti Alliance in Trouble?
Despite these growing tensions, the BJP-led government remains stable. With 132 seats in the Maharashtra Assembly and the support of Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction (41 seats), the BJP enjoys a comfortable majority, even without Shinde’s 57 MLAs. This political equation suggests that while Shinde remains influential, he does not wield the direct power to destabilize the government.
However, the rift within Mahayuti could have broader implications, especially with upcoming civic body elections. If unresolved, the discord between Shinde’s Sena and the BJP could weaken their position in key battlegrounds such as Mumbai and Thane, opening doors for a resurgent opposition.
As Maharashtra’s political landscape continues to shift, all eyes will be on how the ruling alliance navigates these turbulent waters. Will Eknath Shinde assert greater authority, or will the BJP tighten its grip over state politics? The coming months will be crucial in determining the fate of this uneasy coalition.