MUMBAI, Jan 11, 2024 : Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) chief Sharad Pawar expressed his lack of surprise regarding the Maharashtra assembly speaker’s ruling in the Shiv Sena MLAs’ disqualification case. The verdict favored Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s faction, declaring it the “real Shiv Sena.”
MVA’s Collective Opinion
Speaking to reporters in Pune, Pawar revealed that the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), consisting of his NCP faction, Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena faction, and the Congress, collectively expected an unfavorable ruling. He highlighted instances where government officials, including Chief Minister Shinde, hinted at the decision, suggesting an anticipation of the verdict in their favor.
Thackeray Should Appeal in Supreme Court
Pawar urged Uddhav Thackeray to appeal the speaker’s decision in the Supreme Court, emphasizing a strong case. He pointed out the disparity between the speaker’s stance and that of the Supreme Court, presenting an advantageous position for Thackeray’s faction in the higher court.
Opportunity to Highlight Supreme Court Guidelines
Pawar saw an opportunity for MVA constituents and like-minded parties to showcase how the Supreme Court guidelines in the Sena MLAs’ disqualification case were allegedly overlooked. He labeled the speaker’s ruling as a “political decision” and hinted at explaining to the public how power could be misused.
Thackeray’s Reaction: “Murder of Democracy”
Uddhav Thackeray, reacting to the verdict, condemned it as a “murder of democracy.” He expressed concerns about the ease with which individuals could switch parties, emphasizing the impact on democratic principles.
Shinde and Fadnavis Welcome Verdict
In contrast, Eknath Shinde, leader of the favored Shiv Sena faction, congratulated Shiv Sainiks in Maharashtra, deeming the speaker’s decision a victory for democracy. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis applauded Shinde’s leadership and asserted that the government would complete its full term.
This ruling marks a significant development in the ongoing Sena vs. Sena dispute, with political ramifications likely to unfold as the case moves to the Supreme Court.
