Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut on Saturday launched a sharp attack on the ruling parties in Maharashtra, stating that their failure to appoint Leaders of the Opposition (LoP) in the state legislature reflects fear of democratic scrutiny and undermines constitutional processes.
Speaking to reporters, Raut said it was a matter of shame that Maharashtra currently has no Leader of the Opposition in either House of the legislature. “It is a democratic necessity to have a Leader of Opposition in municipal corporations, state assemblies and Parliament. It is also a constitutional requirement,” he asserted.
Raut alleged that over the past 10 to 11 years, systematic efforts have been made to prevent the appointment of LoPs through electoral manipulation and political pressure. “The BJP has consistently tried to weaken and insult the institution of the Leader of Opposition. Legislative business is being conducted without an LoP, which clearly shows the ruling parties are afraid of the post,” he said.
He pointed out that Maharashtra has a long democratic tradition of appointing Leaders of the Opposition even when opposition parties had smaller numerical strength. “Even when the BJP did not have sufficient numbers in Parliament, it was still granted the LoP position. This tradition is now being deliberately dismantled,” Raut said.
The opposition has been demanding the appointment of Leaders of Opposition in both Houses of the Maharashtra legislature. Shiv Sena (UBT) has nominated Bhaskar Jadhav for the Legislative Assembly, while the Congress has proposed Satej Patil for the Legislative Council.
Opposition to Any Division of Maharashtra
Raut also criticised Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule over his recent remarks on the possible creation of a separate Vidarbha state, alleging that the proposal had the backing of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
“Shiv Sena (UBT) will strongly oppose any attempt to divide Maharashtra. The state’s unity is non-negotiable,” Raut said.
Parliament Debate Shows Democracy Alive
Referring to the recent Vande Mataram debate in Parliament, Raut said the ruling BJP appeared unsettled by the presence and performance of Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra.
“There was visible enthusiasm in the debate because of Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. It reinforced the belief that democracy is alive. The debate exposed the BJP and its affiliated organisations,” he claimed.
Raut further demanded a discussion on the Maharashtra Geet in the state legislature, stating that it would spark an important debate on the contributions of various leaders and movements to the formation of Maharashtra and Mumbai.