Mumbai, March 3: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has firmly dismissed speculations of a "cold war" with his deputy, Eknath Shinde, and took a humorous jab at Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut, comparing his imaginative claims to the storytelling prowess of legendary Bollywood screenwriters Salim-Javed.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar on Sunday, Fadnavis clarified, "There is no war. Those familiar with us know what we accomplish when we unite." This conference followed a cabinet meeting and customary tea gathering ahead of the four-week state legislature budget session, commencing Monday.
In a light-hearted tone, Shinde, who now heads the Shiv Sena, reinforced the unity, saying, "Everything is thanda thanda, cool cool," highlighting harmony within the ruling Mahayuti alliance comprising BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP.
Playful Banter Over Chair-Swapping
Amidst smiles and laughter, Shinde humorously noted, "Fadnavis and I have simply swapped chairs; only Ajit Pawar’s chair remains fixed." Pawar swiftly retorted, "What can I do if you couldn't keep your chair?" eliciting laughter from all three leaders.Dismissing Reports and Accusations by Opposition
Fadnavis strongly refuted media reports alleging that he had stayed decisions made by Shinde during his tenure as Chief Minister. "I have not stayed any decision taken by Shinde," he clarified unequivocally.Addressing recent allegations made by Sanjay Raut, who claimed in his weekly column ‘Rokhthok’ published in the Sena (UBT)'s mouthpiece ‘Saamana’, that Shinde secretly met Union Minister Amit Shah at 4 am to complain about Fadnavis, the leaders categorically dismissed the accusations. Shinde clarified that Shah, being a senior NDA leader, met him as part of a "courtesy call" at 10 am, not at the alleged 4 am timing. Fadnavis added that he was also present at the said meeting.
CM Takes Dig at Sanjay Raut’s Imaginative Claims
Mocking Raut’s allegations, Fadnavis compared the Sena (UBT) leader to the renowned Bollywood screenwriting duo Salim-Javed, indicating his flair for dramatic narratives. Shinde humorously suggested Raut might be suffering from a "chemical locha" (imbalance) causing such fictional claims.Clarification on ‘Don’t Take Me Lightly’ Remark
Addressing his controversial "don't take me lightly" remark, Shinde explained it was intended for those who underestimated him, subtly referencing former Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. Fadnavis reinforced this, stating clearly that he never took Shinde lightly.Criticism of Opposition’s Boycott
Criticizing opposition leaders for boycotting the traditional tea party, Fadnavis said, "Their letter runs into nine pages signed by seven out of nine leaders, mostly citing newspaper reports. Had they reviewed the government’s responses, their letter wouldn't have exceeded half a page." He added humorously, "Instead of ‘Hum Saath Saath Hain’, the opposition seems to be playing ‘Hum Aapke Hain Kaun’."Upcoming Legislative Session and Policy Announcements
Outlining the upcoming budget session scheduled till March 26, Fadnavis announced the introduction of five new bills and planned debates on women's empowerment and constitutional matters. He also highlighted the record procurement of soybean and tur, indicating a need for additional godowns for storage.Regarding fiscal management, Fadnavis promised a balanced budget presentation on March 10, maintaining fiscal discipline, and affirmed the continuation of flagship schemes like 'Ladki Bahin', noting the removal of only ineligible beneficiaries.
Stance on Controversies Involving Ministers
Addressing the harassment incident involving Union Minister Raksha Khadse’s daughter, the CM emphasized strict action against perpetrators. On opposition demands for resignations of NCP ministers Manikrao Kokate and Dhananjay Munde, Fadnavis confirmed the government would await a court decision regarding Kokate, clarifying the stance on Munde had already been made.Kokate, recently convicted in a forgery case and sentenced to two years imprisonment, awaits a decision on his appeal scheduled for March 5. Munde faces scrutiny following the arrest of his close associate in a separate criminal matter.
Commenting on the disqualification of Congress leader Sunil Kedar, Fadnavis reiterated that Kedar's removal came after courts refused to stay his conviction, whereas Kokate's sentencing was currently suspended.
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