Sanjay Raut, a key leader of Shiv Sena (UBT) and Rajya Sabha MP, strongly criticized the ruling parties in Maharashtra for failing to appoint Leaders of the Opposition (LoP) in the state legislature, highlighting that this absence hampers democratic accountability. Raut made these statements while addressing reporters on Saturday.
Raut emphasized that not having a Leader of the Opposition in either House of the state legislature is a matter of shame, asserting, “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 alleged that systemic efforts spanning the last decade have aimed to block the appointment of LoPs through political pressure and electoral manipulation. “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,” Raut remarked.
Raut highlighted Maharashtra’s long-standing democratic tradition of appointing Leaders of the Opposition, even when opposition parties had a minority presence. He stated, “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.”
The opposition has united in demanding the appointment of Leaders of Opposition in both Houses of Maharashtra’s legislature. Shiv Sena (UBT) has nominated Bhaskar Jadhav for the Legislative Assembly, while Congress has put forth Satej Patil for the Legislative Council.
Moreover, Raut took aim at Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule regarding his remarks about potentially creating a separate Vidarbha state. Raut condemned this proposal, alleging it is backed by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. “Shiv Sena (UBT) will strongly oppose any attempt to divide Maharashtra. The state’s unity is non-negotiable,” he stated, asserting the importance of maintaining the state’s integrity.
In reference to the recent discourse in Parliament surrounding Vande Mataram, Raut claimed the ruling BJP seemed unsettled by the impactful presence of Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi and Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, which he argued demonstrated vibrant democratic engagement. “There was visible enthusiasm in the debate because of Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi Vadra. It reinforced the belief that democracy is alive,” Raut noted.
He also advocated for a discussion on the Maharashtra Geet in the state legislature, positing that it could lead to important dialogues about the various leaders and movements pivotal to Maharashtra’s and Mumbai’s formation.
In conclusion, Raut’s comments underline a significant moment in Maharashtra’s political landscape, reflecting broader concerns about democratic principles and the legislative process. The ongoing absence of the LoP role raises critical questions about accountability and representation within the state’s governing bodies.
