Opposition Files No-Confidence Motion Against Maharashtra Council Chief

Synopsis

On March 19, the opposition in Maharashtra moved a no-confidence motion against the Legislative Council Chairman, Ram Shinde, citing biased conduct in House proceedings. This motion, supported by 15 opposition members, highlights concerns over democratic practices and the ruling party's conduct.

Key Takeaways

The opposition filed a no-confidence motion against Chairman Ram Shinde.
15 members from various opposition parties signed the motion.
The opposition claims biased proceedings in the Upper House.
Protests are planned with black badges and ribbons.
Ruling party's actions are criticized as undermining democracy.

Mumbai, March 19 (NationPress) The opposition factions on Wednesday initiated a no-confidence motion against the Chairman of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, Ram Shinde, alleging that he is conducting the proceedings of the Upper House in a biased and one-sided manner.

This no-confidence motion has garnered the signatures of 15 members from opposition parties, including the Leader of the Opposition Ambadas Danve, Shiv Sena UBT legislator Anil Parab, Congress legislators Bhai Jagtap and Abhijit Vanjari, along with NCP-SP legislator Eknath Khadse. The motion was filed in accordance with Article 183 (c) of the Constitution of India and Maharashtra Legislative Council Rule 11.

“The Maharashtra Legislative Council Chairman, Ram Shinde, is managing the House proceedings in a biased and one-sided fashion. The conduct of the House is not following the established rules. He has lost the trust of the House, as the rights of the opposition party and its leader have been disregarded. Consequently, the opposition has moved for his removal as council chairman,” states the no-confidence motion.

Danve indicated that the opposition plans to engage in the House proceedings donning black badges starting Thursday, while also boycotting business when Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe presides.

“The Maha Vikas Aghadi had previously submitted a no-confidence motion against Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe on March 5. However, Chairman Ram Shinde dismissed it on Tuesday. BJP group leader Praveen Darekar moved a motion expressing confidence in Gorhe, despite it not being part of the day's agenda. The Chairman also denied the Leader of the Opposition the opportunity to present his position. As a result, Maha Vikas Aghadi legislators exited the House today and will also protest tomorrow by wearing black ribbons,” said Danve.

He further emphasized that they would abstain from proceedings if the Deputy Chairperson is in charge.

Danve accused the ruling party of becoming arrogant due to their majority, pushing through motions without allowing the opposition to voice their stance. This action was met with strong opposition from the opposing parties. “Denying the opposition the chance to speak is a barrier to democracy. It undermines the culture and tradition of democratic practice,” he asserted.

Earlier, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis firmly supported the Chair's decision to reject the no-confidence motion against Deputy Chairperson Neelam Gorhe. The Chairman, Ram Shinde, stated that the no-confidence motion did not comply with the designated protocols and timelines for submission and subsequent consideration.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena UBT legislator and former minister Aaditya Thackeray claimed that arbitrary governance is prevalent in both Houses. “When we ask questions, ministers are absent, so what’s the point of raising issues? Even when we attempt to submit a no-confidence motion in the Upper House, the ruling party hurriedly pushes it through,” he alleged.