Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut launched a forceful critique of Maharashtra’s ruling parties on Saturday, addressing their failure to appoint Leaders of the Opposition (LoP) in the state legislature. His comments underscore concerns that this absence reflects an unwillingness to face democratic scrutiny and effectively undermines constitutional processes.
Raut expressed disappointment, declaring it a matter of shame that Maharashtra currently lacks a 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 stated emphatically, highlighting the essential role of opposition in governance.
The seasoned politician alleged that over the past 10 to 11 years, systematic efforts have emerged to prevent the appointment of LoPs due to 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 LoP, which clearly shows that the ruling parties are afraid of the post,” he articulated, emphasizing the historical significance of the LoP role.
Raut pointed out that Maharashtra possesses a rich democratic tradition of appointing Leaders of the Opposition, even when opposition parties had less power. “Even when the BJP did not have sufficient numbers in Parliament, it was still granted the LoP position. This longstanding tradition is now being deliberately dismantled,” he noted.
The opposition parties have consistently demanded the appointment of Leaders of the Opposition in both Houses of the Maharashtra legislature. Shiv Sena (UBT) has nominated Bhaskar Jadhav for the Legislative Assembly, while Congress supports Satej Patil for the Legislative Council, seeking to restore balance within the political arena.
Raut broadened his critique, addressing remarks made by Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule regarding a possible separate state of Vidarbha. He alleged that the proposal reflects the interests of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. “Shiv Sena (UBT) will strongly oppose any attempt to divide Maharashtra. The state’s unity is non-negotiable,” Raut affirmed, reiterating a commitment to preserving Maharashtra’s integrity.
Moreover, Raut referred to a recent parliamentary debate on Vande Mataram as indicative of a vibrant democracy. He suggested that the ruling BJP appeared unsettled by the effective presence and performance of Rahul Gandhi, the Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition, 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 articulated.
To further underline the need for a robust opposition, Raut urged for a discussion on the Maharashtra Geet in the legislature. He stated that such a discourse would spark vital discussions on the contributions of diverse leaders and movements that shaped Maharashtra and Mumbai.
