BJP-NCP Alliance with Ajit Pawar: A Political Shift in Mumbai

In Mumbai, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed growing discontent among lower-ranking leaders of the Mahayuti alliance regarding the BJP's partnership with Ajit Pawar of the NCP. Fadnavis emphasized that while the alliance with Shiv Sena was natural, the collaboration with Ajit Pawar was primarily political. He suggested that if the alliance continued for another five to ten years, it could evolve into a more natural partnership. This statement came amid public criticisms from BJP leaders, including Pune district vice president Sudarshan Choudhary, who expressed a desire to remove Ajit Pawar from the coalition. The dissatisfaction was further highlighted during a cabinet meeting where Shiv Sena ministers objected to Pawar's promotion of the Ladki Bahiñ scheme without acknowledging the Chief Minister. Additionally, local BJP units in Latur and Wadgaon Sheri voiced serious allegations against the NCP, citing a lack of cooperation during the Lok Sabha elections. Chief Minister Ekanth Shinde intervened, urging his colleagues to refrain from making statements that could jeopardize the alliance. He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration within the Mahayuti. Shinde also noted that he had not met Ajit Pawar recently, indicating a potential rift within the coalition. The ongoing tensions reflect the complexities of political alliances in Maharashtra, where personal grievances and public criticisms threaten the stability of the coalition government. The future of the BJP-NCP alliance remains uncertain as leaders navigate these challenges.