Maha CM Asserts Unity in MahaYuti, Dismisses Cold War Claims

Mumbai, March 2 (NationPress) Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis stated on Sunday that everything is functioning smoothly within the MahaYuti government, dismissing speculation regarding a Cold War among the ruling parties, BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP.

"We have effectively battled the Opposition and secured a significant victory in the Assembly. While we will confront the Opposition, we will not engage with the media in conflict. The media should ensure accuracy in reporting based on established principles. It is essential to consider the government's perspective before publishing any news. There is no Cold War among our ruling partners. Both Eknath Shinde and I are aware of our collaborative efforts," he mentioned during a press conference following the Cabinet meeting and the customary tea gathering, which the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) chose to boycott.

Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde echoed the sentiment, asserting that no Cold War exists among the MahaYuti allies.

Chief Minister Fadnavis also refuted reports suggesting that various decisions made by the Ministries under the Shinde camp were being halted.

"Our government prioritizes transparency. Generally, when we receive requests from legislators, we review them and take appropriate actions. I have not issued any stay orders," the Chief Minister clarified.

He further announced that the state government plans to present a balanced Budget in the upcoming session starting Monday, focusing on enhancing capital expenditure while adhering to fiscal discipline.

CM Fadnavis, alongside Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, stated that despite financial constraints, the state government will continue to support welfare and development initiatives, including the Ladki Bahin Yojana, while ensuring that ineligible beneficiaries are excluded according to Comptroller and Auditor General guidelines.

He noted that Maharashtra ranks highest among states in delivering financial benefits through welfare and development schemes.

CM Fadnavis revealed that the state government has devised a strategy to settle outstanding payments to contractors for various development projects, indicating that 10 percent of dues have already been disbursed, with the remainder to follow the passage of supplementary demands and the Budget.

In response to the Opposition MVA's decision to forgo the customary tea meeting, the Chief Minister expressed that they missed a chance for dialogue with the government as they had requested in their correspondence.

"The government is open to discussions and will address the issues raised by the Opposition during the Budget session. Even with the MahaYuti's strength of 237, we will not disregard the Opposition's presence and will allow them an opportunity to engage in discussions," he noted.

"The Opposition submitted a nine-page letter outlining various concerns, one of the lengthiest in years, but it was primarily based on media reports. Had they reviewed the government's clarifications on these matters, the letter's length would have been reduced," he remarked.

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar commented that the Opposition MVA has maintained the tradition of boycotting the customary tea meeting.

However, he affirmed that the state government is prepared to address all issues raised by the Opposition MVA.

Concerning the molestation incident involving Union Minister of State Raksha Khadse's daughter, CM Fadnavis acknowledged it as an unfortunate occurrence, stating that he has already communicated with the Union Minister, assuring her that no one would be spared, regardless of party affiliations.