Sena MLA Sanjay Shirsat has expressed his dissatisfaction with the entry of the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) into the Maharashtra government. He believes that when the Sena-BJP government had a majority of 172 MLAs, there was no need to include the NCP. However, Shirsat acknowledges that some accommodations have to be made in politics. He questions the compromises made and how it will affect the alliance between the Sena and the BJP. Other Sena MLAs are also concerned about their chances of securing cabinet berths.
Despite the concerns, MLA Shirsat mentions that another round of cabinet expansion is expected to take place soon. He emphasizes the importance of justice and pacifying all party members. Shirsat believes that once the strength of the individual leaders is consolidated, more seats will be added. He asserts that the cabinet expansion was planned and orchestrated by CM Eknath Shinde and Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis.
The inclusion of the NCP in the government has reduced the number of available ministerial slots. Several Sena MLAs who were hopeful of obtaining cabinet berths are now uncertain of their prospects. MLA Bharat Gogawale acknowledges that such shifts are common in politics and that they have to accept the reality and move forward. Gogawale humorously remarks that some MLAs who were originally supposed to receive a whole ‘bhakri’ (bread) will now only get half, while others who were supposed to get half will only receive a quarter.
CM Shinde’s sudden return to Mumbai from Nagpur has led to speculations about potential political developments. Sena sources indicate that a party meeting called by CM Shinde will discuss the current cabinet expansion, the party’s role in the changed political scenario, and other related issues.
It is already evident that CM Shinde will lead the government until 2024, as confirmed by senior BJP leadership. There are no reported differences with Ajit Pawar and the NCP, and all parties are expected to work together effectively.
Despite the adjustments and compromises within the Maharashtra government, some Sena MLAs remain hopeful and express willingness to work with Uddhav Thackeray if he reaches out. However, they emphasize that their support is contingent on reciprocation.
In conclusion, Sena MLA Sanjay Shirsat’s dissatisfaction with the NCP’s entry in the Maharashtra government highlights the concerns and uncertainties among Sena MLAs. While political accommodations are deemed necessary, there is also a need for just decision-making and balancing the interests of all parties involved. The upcoming cabinet expansion and party meetings will shed more light on the future dynamics of the coalition government.
