Political Earthquake Expected in Maharashtra as 15 MLAs Set to Join Shinde Faction
Maharashtra Set for Major Political Shift: 10-15 MLAs to Join Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena on January 23
In a stunning claim, Shiv Sena leader Rahul Shewale stated that 10 to 15 MLAs from the opposition Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) are expected to defect to the faction led by Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on January 23. Shewale, a former Lok Sabha MP, described the upcoming political realignment as a “major political earthquake” that could alter the landscape of Maharashtra politics.
What Shewale’s Claim Means for Maharashtra Politics
The potential defection of a significant number of MLAs from key opposition parties such as Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) is poised to have a profound impact on the political equilibrium in Maharashtra. Shewale’s remarks come in the wake of mounting speculation about internal discord within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, which includes the Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) led by Sharad Pawar.
According to Shewale, the political shift is set to take place on January 23, coinciding with the birth anniversary of Shiv Sena founder Bal Thackeray. This date, laden with historical significance for the party, is seen by many as a symbolic moment for a significant realignment of Maharashtra’s political landscape.
“The upcoming event will see some 10-15 MLAs from Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) moving to Shinde-led Shiv Sena. It’s their own parties that will split, but leaders like Vijay Wadettiwar and Sanjay Raut are spreading false news about dissatisfaction within the Shiv Sena,” Shewale asserted in his statement.
The Alleged Discontent within the Shiv Sena (UBT)
Shewale’s claim comes as a response to remarks made by opposition leaders, including Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar and Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut. Both have pointed to signs of internal strife within the ruling Shiv Sena-BJP coalition, particularly concerning the appointment of guardian ministers.
Wadettiwar, speaking from Nagpur, even speculated that Eknath Shinde might be sidelined within the ruling coalition. He hinted at a power shift in the Shinde faction, suggesting that his political influence may be waning, especially in light of rumors about Shinde’s dissatisfaction with the way the Maharashtra government is handling ministerial appointments. “Shinde’s political utility might be over, and his situation seems precarious,” Wadettiwar remarked.
Additionally, Wadettiwar pointed to Industries Minister Uday Samant’s ability to maintain good relations with both the Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the opposition. “A new political situation may emerge in Maharashtra, with the possibility of a third ‘Uday’ rise for Shiv Sena,” he added, referring to Samant’s strategic positioning.
The Growing Divide within the Ruling Coalition
Sanjay Raut’s statements further fuel the narrative of discord within the ruling coalition. Raut claimed that the appointment of guardian ministers had created dissatisfaction within the Shiv Sena-BJP alliance. Reports indicated that after the government announced the allocation of guardian ministers for 36 districts, appointments for two districts—Nashik and Raigad—stayed, leading to internal conflicts.
“The government is failing to manage its internal issues. Shinde’s anger over the allocation of guardian ministers is clear, and his authority is being questioned,” Raut stated. He speculated that Uday Samant could be groomed as a possible replacement for Shinde if the latter fails to regain control over his faction. “If Shinde cannot control his ministers, how can he lead?” Raut questioned.
These claims of discord within the government and the Shiv Sena (UBT) have set the stage for a potential reshuffling of political allegiances in the state. The impending shift in the ranks of opposition leaders joining the Shinde faction could provide the ruling government with a significant political boost, particularly in light of the ongoing internal disagreements.
Impact on Maharashtra’s Political Future
The claims made by Shewale regarding the defection of MLAs are stirring anxieties within the opposition parties. With the Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP securing a total of 46 seats in the 2024 Maharashtra assembly elections, the defection of 10 to 15 MLAs could significantly weaken their position in the state legislature. It would also raise questions about the future viability of the Maha Vikas Aghadi alliance.
The potential shift also raises concerns about the stability of the Shinde-led government. If Shewale’s prediction comes true, the political landscape in Maharashtra could witness a major overhaul, with the Shinde faction potentially gaining more ground in the state’s power dynamics. On the other hand, the opposition may find itself scrambling to recalibrate and reassert its influence in the face of this internal collapse.
The Road Ahead for Eknath Shinde and Maharashtra Politics
As Maharashtra prepares for what Shewale has termed a “political earthquake,” the coming days will be critical for all political players in the state. January 23 may mark the beginning of a new phase in Maharashtra’s political trajectory, but it remains to be seen how the defection of MLAs will impact the balance of power in the state.
For now, the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde is expected to capitalize on the defection of MLAs, strengthening its hold on Maharashtra’s political scene. Meanwhile, the Congress and Shiv Sena (UBT) will have to work quickly to address the discontent within their ranks and ensure that they are not further weakened by these defections.