look news india
The most sensational and shocking news of this time is coming out from the political corridors of Maharashtra, which has given sleepless nights to the Mahayuti government and Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Once again the rumor of a big upheaval or ‘Khela’ like the year 2022 has intensified in the politics of the state. The ongoing movements within the Mahavikas Aghadi (MVA) and a recent statement by Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) chief Uddhav Thackeray have fueled these speculations. It is being claimed in political circles that many prominent leaders and public representatives of Eknath Shinde led Shiv Sena are preparing to change sides. When Uddhav Thackeray was directly asked about this, he just said with a mysterious smile, ‘Wait a little, let’s see what happens in the future.’
What is the real reason for dissatisfaction and rebellion in Shinde camp?
The reason behind this political discussion spread from Mumbai to Delhi is believed to be the deep dissatisfaction growing within the Shinde group. According to information received from sources, at least 16 MLAs and 7 Lok Sabha MPs of Eknath Shinde faction are currently angry with the leadership of their own party. The main reasons for this resentment are said to be the fear of being denied ticket in the upcoming elections, not getting a place in the cabinet expansion and the ongoing tussle with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) over seat sharing. These leaders are feeling that their political future is in danger amidst the current political equations, hence they are continuously holding secret meetings with the top leaders of the Uddhav Thackeray faction in search of a safe haven.
Queue of leaders in Uddhav Thackeray’s ‘Matoshree’
Shiv Sena (UBT) insiders claim that all these 16 angry MLAs and 7 MPs are in touch with Uddhav Thackeray’s residence ‘Matoshree’ in Mumbai. If we look at the statements of senior leaders of the Uddhav faction, especially Sanjay Raut, in the last few days, they are continuously claiming that many people of the Shinde faction are desperate to return home. Uddhav Thackeray is taking steps with great enthusiasm at this time. They are in favor of taking back only those leaders who have a strong hold in their areas and who did not make sharp personal attacks on the Uddhav family at the time of the rebellion. With the statement ‘Wait a little’, Uddhav has made it clear that the script has been written and only the right time is awaited.
What will be its effect on local and geographical equations?
If this rebellion proves true on the ground, its biggest impact will be seen in the geographical belt of Konkan, Thane, Mumbai and Western Maharashtra. These are the areas which are considered the traditional stronghold of Shiv Sena. Eknath Shinde’s personal hold in Thane and Konkan has been extremely strong, but if MLAs and MPs from his own stronghold break away, it will be a huge blow to his leadership. On the other hand, the political equations will completely change in the areas of Marathwada and North Maharashtra. There is confusion among the workers at the local level as to which faction they should stand with, which is sure to create huge upheaval in grassroots politics.
Stability of Mahayuti government and strategic concern of BJP
The news of this possible rebellion has increased the concerns of not only Eknath Shinde but also his ally Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The arithmetic of every MLA is very important for the stability of the government in Maharashtra. If such a large number of public representatives betray or change sides, not only the government may be in trouble, but the entire electoral mathematics of Mahayuti may get spoiled in the coming days. The BJP high command is keeping a close eye on the situation and has started emergency talks with Eknath Shinde for damage control so that any possible breakdown can be stopped in time.