Will Sanjay Raut's All-Party Delegation Attract CM Fadnavis?
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Synopsis
Sanjay Raut has invited CM Fadnavis to join an all-party delegation meeting with the Maharashtra Chief Electoral Officer on October 14, amid local elections. This meeting aims to address concerns over previous electoral integrity and emphasizes the importance of maintaining democracy in Maharashtra.
Key Takeaways
- Sanjay Raut invites CM Fadnavis to join all-party delegation.
- Meeting scheduled with Maharashtra CEO on October 14.
- Focus on electoral integrity and collaboration.
- All-party leaders include significant political figures.
- Supreme Court mandates election completion by January 31.
Mumbai, Oct 11 (NationPress) Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut has extended an invitation to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to be part of an all-party delegation set to meet Maharashtra Chief Electoral Officer S. Chockalingam on October 14, in anticipation of the forthcoming local and civic body elections in the state.
The delegation is expected to include prominent figures such as NCP (SP) leader Sharad Pawar, Shiv Sena (UBT) president Uddhav Thackeray, state Congress president Harshwardhan Sapkal, and MNS founder Raj Thackeray, among others.
This meeting marks the first gathering of opposition and regional leaders following serious allegations of vote tampering during the previous year's Assembly elections.
In his correspondence dated October 10, Raut remarked, “Engaging with the Election Commission has turned into a mere formality, yet it remains crucial to uphold communication with this key institution in our democratic framework. On October 14 at 12.30 p.m., an all-party leaders delegation will convene with Chief Election Officer Chockalingam.”
He continued, “The Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, is invited to take part in this all-party assembly. This is not merely a political move but a genuine effort to safeguard democracy. Following the meeting, all leaders will hold a press conference at Yashwantrao Chavan Pratishthan. Jai Maharashtra!”
This gathering occurs as various political factions, including those in the ruling Mahayuti alliance and the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi, prepare for elections concerning zilla parishads, nagar parishads, nagar panchayats, and 29 municipal corporations, which includes the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
A recent decree from the Supreme Court mandated the state government and the State Election Commission to finalize these elections by January 31 of the coming year. The Election Commission has since expedited the preparations, currently soliciting input on ward delimitations.
Meanwhile, CM Fadnavis, post a meeting with BJP officials in Nashik on Friday, stated that Mahayuti partners will collaborate in the local body elections “wherever feasible.”
“However, in areas where allies are equally robust, there will be friendly contests,” he emphasized, suggesting that while a formal coalition among the BJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde faction), and Ajit Pawar-led NCP might not be achievable statewide, local seat-sharing arrangements could be made based on specific strengths.
Point of View
This invitation marks a significant moment for Maharashtra's political climate, reflecting both the urgency of electoral integrity and the potential for cross-party dialogue. While the backdrop of allegations adds gravity, the effort to unify leaders for a common cause underscores the essence of democracy. It is imperative that all parties prioritize the electoral process to ensure trust among voters.
NationPress
11/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the all-party delegation meeting?
The all-party delegation meeting aims to address concerns regarding electoral integrity and maintain dialogue with the Election Commission ahead of local elections.
Who are the key leaders participating in the delegation?
Key leaders include Sharad Pawar, Uddhav Thackeray, Harshwardhan Sapkal, and Raj Thackeray, among others.
When is the meeting scheduled?
The meeting is scheduled for October 14 at 12.30 p.m.
What recent directive did the Supreme Court issue regarding elections?
The Supreme Court directed the state government and State Election Commission to complete local elections by January 31 of the next year.
What is CM Fadnavis's stance on the local body elections?
CM Fadnavis indicated that Mahayuti partners will contest together where possible, allowing for friendly contests in areas with strong allies.
