#eknath_shinde

Realigned Shaktipeeth Eway to cost Rs1.01 lakh crore The proposed Nagpur-Goa Shaktipeeth Expressway, a major infrastructure project in Maharashtra, has seen its estimated cost rise to Rs1.01 lakh crore under a revised alignment, according to information shared with the Maharashtra Legislative Council on Tuesday. The revised plan, which spans 856.77 kilometers—up from the original 802.59 kilometers—now passes through 13 districts, including the addition of Satara. The project’s alignment was adjusted in several districts following feedback from local representatives, farmers, and residents. The revised design replaces the earlier proposal of a single 21-kilometer tunnel through the Western Ghats with six separate tunnels. This change was made to prioritize road safety, ease of construction, and long-term maintenance costs. The modifications were implemented in districts such as Hingoli, Nanded, Parbhani, Dharashiv, Solapur, Sangli, Kolhapur, and Sindhudurg, reflecting adjustments to address community concerns and logistical challenges. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde confirmed that the revised alignment was sanctioned on April 1 and that construction will proceed in phases once necessary approvals are secured. He outlined that land acquisition compensation will be determined under the Maharashtra Highways Act, 1955, along with current government rules, ensuring market value and eligible resettlement benefits for affected individuals. The project’s funding strategy is still under review, with options including loans from the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), long-term financial institution funds, and phased funding plans. However, no specific timeline for the start of construction was provided in the response.#eknath_shinde #maharashtra_legislative_council #msrdc #shaktipeeth_eway #maharashtra_highways_act

Fadnavis Needed Till 2034, Says Bawankule Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule launched a pointed critique of Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray on Monday, accusing him of diverting attention from his party’s internal challenges to question the political future of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Speaking to the media in Nagpur, Bawankule defended Fadnavis, describing him as a “mature, development-oriented and versatile leader” capable of transforming Maharashtra into a developed state. The minister emphasized that the state “needs him till 2034,” framing Fadnavis as an essential figure for long-term governance. Bawankule’s remarks came in response to Thackeray’s recent allegations in Washim, where he claimed that “Operation Tiger”—a move under which six Lok Sabha MPs from his party defected to Eknath Shinde’s faction of Shiv Sena—was a covert effort to undermine Fadnavis’ leadership. The minister dismissed Thackeray’s claims as unfounded, asserting that Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah had full confidence in Fadnavis’ leadership. He further accused Thackeray of abandoning Hindutva principles by aligning with the Congress party, arguing that the BJP’s strength lies in its ideological foundation rather than political power or financial incentives. Bawankule also criticized Thackeray for what he termed the “collapse” of his party, stating that Congress had effectively dismantled Shiv Sena (UBT). He claimed that the people of Maharashtra had accepted Eknath Shinde’s faction as the ideological successor to Balasaheb Thackeray’s legacy, suggesting that Thackeray’s leadership was no longer viable. Beyond political rhetoric, Bawankule outlined several policy initiatives aimed at addressing regional development and farmer welfare.#devendra_fadnavis #narendra_moddi #eknath_shinde #shiv_sena_UBT #chandrashekhar_bawankule

Shiv Sena Faction Clash Escalates Over Alleged Corruption and Political Betrayal The Shiv Sena editorial in Saamana, the mouthpiece of Uddhav Thackeray’s faction, has intensified criticism of Eknath Shinde’s leadership and his alliance with the BJP, accusing him of prioritizing personal gain over Maharashtra’s welfare. The editorial, published after six additional legislators defected to Shinde’s camp, highlights the ongoing rift between the two factions of the Shiv Sena, which began in June 2022 when Shinde led a group of legislators to join the BJP, forcing Thackeray to resign as chief minister. The editorial accuses Shinde of leveraging his alliance with BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis to advance his political ambitions, claiming the partnership has set Maharashtra back by 25 years. It alleges a corrupt nexus between Shinde and Fadnavis, stating that their actions have tarnished the state’s reputation and prioritized self-interest over public welfare. The piece warns that Shinde’s arrogance, fueled by wealth, will eventually lead to Fadnavis facing similar consequences, as Delhi-based factions are reportedly backing Fadnavis against Shinde. The editorial mocks Fadnavis for his public praise of Shinde’s “delivery,” a term used to describe the defection of legislators. It compares this to the distribution of sweets by BJP leaders to celebrate the rebels’ switch, likening it to the joy of parents after a child’s birth. The article further criticizes the BJP for allegedly bribing six legislators to defect, with the editorial claiming at least Rs 500 crore was spent on “Operation Tiger,” a rumored strategy to lure Thackeray’s Sena members into Shinde’s camp. The editorial also ties the defection to broader political tensions, including the NEET exam leak scandal.#devendra_fadnavis #shiv_sena #uddhav_thackeray #eknath_shinde #maharashtra_bjp

Nimbalkar to Decide Political Stand After Consulting Voters; Sena (UBT) Still Hopes He Stays Omprakash Raje Nimbalkar, a member of parliament from Osmanabad (Dharashiv), has announced he will determine his political future after consulting the people of his constituency. The decision comes amid ongoing tensions within the Shiv Sena (UBT), which is led by Uddhav Thackeray. The party remains hopeful that Nimbalkar, one of six dissident Lok Sabha MPs, will not leave the Uddhav Thackeray-led faction. Nimbalkar, who skipped a parliamentary party meeting in Delhi on June 17, stated he would make his decision within two days. The meeting, which was part of the Sena (UBT) parliamentary party, was attended by most members except the six dissidents, including Nimbalkar. These MPs are suspected of aligning with the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, which has been in a power struggle with Thackeray’s faction. The Sena (UBT) issued show-cause notices to the dissidents on June 18, demanding explanations for their absence. However, none of the six MPs have responded to the notices, according to a party leader. The political rift has raised concerns about the stability of the Sena (UBT), which currently has nine Lok Sabha members. Under the anti-defection law, the party could face disqualification if the rebel bloc secures at least six MPs—two-thirds of its total strength. A party leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, noted that Nimbalkar is “on his way back (from the rebel camp)” but has not yet clarified his stance. The controversy surrounding Nimbalkar intensified after a special court acquitted his father, Pawanraje Nimbalkar, and seven others in the 2006 murder case.#uddhav_thackeray #eknath_shinde #shiv_sena_UBT #omprakash_raje_nimbalkar #pawanraje_nimbalkar

Shiv Sena (UBT) Faces Major Defection Crisis as Six MLAs Plan to Leave Party Six members of the Shiv Sena (UBT), led by Uddhav Thackeray, are set to announce their decision to resign from the party in a press conference today. The defectors, who have already met with Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, plan to disclose their reasons for leaving during the event. They will also release documents, including a letter submitted to Birla, along with photos and videos from their meeting. The move has intensified speculation about the internal tensions within the party, particularly linking the defections to the influence of Eknath Shinde’s faction, which previously split from Thackeray’s leadership in 2022. Thackeray, who founded the UBT after Shinde’s faction split, now faces another crisis as six of his 9 Lok Sabha members defect. The defectors allege that the party’s original principles have been abandoned, leading them to seek a new path. They have indicated they may approach Birla again if necessary and are also considering supporting Shinde’s faction, which has been accused of orchestrating the current rift through its “Operation Tiger” strategy. The Shiv Sena (UBT) has responded by issuing a notice to the defectors, threatening to revoke their membership for skipping a party meeting. Meanwhile, Thackeray has initiated measures to prevent further defections, including visiting the constituencies of the defectors—Yavatmal, Parbhani, Hingoli, Dharampuri, and Shirud—to engage with local party leaders and workers. The situation has sparked widespread political debate, with concerns about the future stability of the party and its impact on Maharashtra’s political landscape.#uddhav_thackeray #shiv_sena_ubit #eknath_shinde #lok_sabha_speaker_om_birla #operation_tiger

Uddhav Thackeray's Shaking Announcement Mumbai: Shivsena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray expressed deep anguish over the defection of six party MPs to Eknath Shinde's faction. The leader, who has led the party for about 13 years, stated he is prepared to step down from his leadership role if the party demands it. Thackeray, addressing a gathering in Mumbai during the party's 60th anniversary celebrations, emphasized that he has faced severe challenges and personal attacks during his tenure. He vowed to protect the party from "traitors and thieves" but acknowledged the need for internal reforms. Thackeray's response marked his first public comment on the defection crisis, which has shaken the party's stability. The six MPs, who joined Shinde's faction, have reportedly weakened the Uddhav group's internal cohesion. Shinde, the deputy chief minister, indirectly criticized Thackeray, comparing him to a tiger whose fur is "covered in leather" but remains a "tiger" in essence. This metaphor suggested Shinde's faction believes Thackeray's leadership is still formidable despite the defections. The political fallout has intensified as Shinde's faction gains parliamentary strength, while Thackeray's group faces internal turmoil. Analysts note that this marks the first major defection crisis since the 2022 Shivsena split. Shinde's faction is framing the defection as a strategic victory, while Thackeray's camp is struggling to maintain unity. The situation highlights the deepening divisions within Maharashtra's political landscape, with both factions vying for dominance in the state's complex power dynamics. The defection has also raised questions about the party's future leadership.#mumbai #uddhav_thackeray #eknath_shinde #shivsena_ubit #shivsena_split

Lone Vidarbha UBT MP Reaffirms Loyalty to Shiv Sena After Virtual Meeting with Uddhav Thackeray Sanjay Deshmukh, the sole Shiv Sena (UBT) member of parliament from Vidarbha, reaffirmed his allegiance to the party after participating in an emergency virtual meeting with party chief Uddhav Thackeray at Matoshree on Sunday. The gathering followed persistent rumors that Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was attempting to lure seven UBT MPs to defect and bolster Shiv Sena’s parliamentary strength ahead of the monsoon session. Deshmukh, who could not attend the meeting in person, stated he remained fully committed to Uddhav Thackeray, emphasizing his dedication as a "soldier of Balasaheb Thackeray." The meeting, described by political analysts as a response to what has been termed "Operation Tiger," aimed to counter Shinde’s alleged efforts to recruit defectors. Deshmukh joined the virtual session alongside other MPs, including Omraje Nimbalkar, Bhausaheb Waghchaure, and Nagesh Ashtikar, while Arvind Sawant, Anil Desai, Sanjay Dina Patil, and Rajabhau Waje attended in person. Uddhav Thackeray also spoke to Parbhani MP Sanjay Bandu Jadhav via phone. After the meeting, Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut publicly confirmed that all nine UBT Lok Sabha MPs had reaffirmed their loyalty, calling for an end to speculation about their political allegiance. The political maneuvering comes amid broader tensions within the Shiv Sena, with Shinde’s faction reportedly seeking to weaken the Uddhav-led group. Under the anti-defection law, at least seven of the nine UBT MPs would need to defect to avoid disqualification, making Shinde’s outreach a strategic challenge. The situation is further complicated by the Centre’s planned reintroduction of the delimitation and women’s reservation bills during the monsoon session.#shiv_sena #uddhav_thackeray #matoshree #eknath_shinde #sanjay_deshmukh

Maharashtra: Sanjay Raut Invites Shinde Faction Leaders to Return to Shiv Sena (UBT) if They Regret Their Split Sanjay Raut, a leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), has extended an invitation to members of the Shinde faction to rejoin the party if they realize their decision to leave in 2022 was a mistake. However, Raut clarified that not all leaders will be allowed to return. The statement comes amid ongoing tensions between the two factions of the Shiv Sena, which split in 2022 when a group led by Eknath Shinde broke away to form the Shiv Sena (UBT). Raut, who is a member of the Shiv Sena (UBT) and a member of parliament, stated during a press interaction in Mumbai that if any leader feels they made an error in leaving the party or were misled, they should return to the UBT faction led by Uddhav Thackeray. He accused the BJP of disrespecting its allies, suggesting that the party’s actions have contributed to the factional divide. This remark follows a statement by Abdul Sattar, a senior leader of the Shinde faction and former minister, who claimed that the BJP had weakened the Shiv Sena (UBT) and further damaged the Shinde faction’s influence in the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar district. Sattar argued that if allies begin to weaken the party, the BJP-Shiv Sena alliance loses its legitimacy. He also hinted at the possibility of reuniting the two Shiv Sena factions. Raut countered by asserting that the original Shiv Sena, not the BJP, was the dominant political force in Maharashtra. He criticized the BJP for failing to accept this reality and blamed the party for causing the split. Raut also raised questions about the Election Commission’s role in matters related to the party’s name and symbols, expressing confidence that the Supreme Court would rule in favor of Uddhav Thackeray’s faction.#maharashtra #uddhav_thackeray #shiv_sena_ubit #eknath_shinde #shinde_faction

Maharashtra Govt Committed to Addressing Maratha Quota Demands While Protecting OBC Interests: Fadnavis Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reiterated the government’s dedication to resolving the Maratha reservation issue while safeguarding the interests of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) amid ongoing protests and legal challenges. Speaking in Nagpur, Fadnavis emphasized that any decisions on reservation policies must adhere to constitutional and judicial guidelines, highlighting the legal complexities surrounding the matter. He stated that the Mahayuti government, led by him and Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, has already taken “unprecedented steps” to address Maratha concerns without compromising OBC benefits. The government’s stance comes as Maratha quota activist Manoj Jarange continues his indefinite hunger strike from Antarwadi Sarati village in Jalna, demanding Kunbi caste certificates for eligible Marathas to access OBC reservation benefits. Jarange also called for the implementation of records from the Hyderabad and Satara Gazette and the withdrawal of legal cases against protesters during previous agitations. Fadnavis assured the Maratha community that the government would not “pit one community against another,” reaffirming its commitment to equitable distribution of reservation benefits. Fadnavis stressed that the government would follow the Constitution of India and directives from the Bombay High Court and Supreme Court, warning that decisions made outside these frameworks might gain public attention but would fail legal scrutiny. He acknowledged the long-standing apprehensions of OBC organizations, which fear that extending reservation benefits to Marathas could dilute opportunities for backward communities.#devendra_fadnavis #bombay_high_court #maharashtra_govt #eknath_shinde #manoj_jarange

BJP Cadre Pushes Aggressive Electoral Strategy in Vidarbha Ahead of Council Elections As the political landscape in Maharashtra continues to shift, BJP functionaries in Vidarbha have intensified efforts to secure a strong electoral position ahead of the Maharashtra Legislative Council elections. The region, known for its significant BJP presence, is now at the center of strategic planning as the party seeks to counter potential challenges from alliance partners within the Mahayuti coalition. District-level BJP leaders have conveyed a clear directive to the party’s central leadership in Nagpur, emphasizing the need to contest the polls with confidence rather than being caught off guard by last-minute seat-sharing demands from allies. The focus of this strategy is rooted in the party’s existing dominance in local governance structures. Senior BJP functionaries highlighted that the party’s stronghold in municipal corporations, zilla parishads, and other local bodies provides a distinct advantage in most Vidarbha constituencies. This organizational strength is seen as a critical asset in the upcoming elections, which are expected to serve as a barometer of the party’s grassroots influence. However, concerns remain about the potential for internal competition within the ruling alliance, particularly with Shiv Sena, led by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, attempting to expand its footprint in the region. Party insiders have expressed worries that Shiv Sena may seek to negotiate for seats in the council polls, especially in constituencies where the BJP has historically held sway. This perceived threat has prompted BJP leaders to stress the importance of maintaining a proactive approach. A local BJP functionary noted that the organization’s strength in Vidarbha should not be undermined by defensive tactics.#bjp #shiv_sena #eknath_shinde #mahayuti #nagpur_local_authorities

Bachchu Kadu’s Shiv Sena Entry To Power Shinde’s Vidarbha Push Nagpur: The merger of ex-MLA Bachchu Kadu’s Prahar Janshakti Party with Shiv Sena (Shinde) has been framed as a strategic political alliance that benefits both parties and aligns with deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde’s ambitions to strengthen the party’s presence in Vidarbha. Kadu, who suffered a defeat in the 2024 state elections, is now securing a seat in the Legislative Council, while Shinde gains a prominent figure with a strong grassroots following to challenge the BJP’s dominance in the region. Shiv Sena, despite having MLAs and an MP from Vidarbha, has historically operated as a secondary force to its alliance partner, the BJP. This dynamic has persisted even during the party’s earlier unified phase. Sources suggest that Shinde, feeling pressure from the BJP, is actively pursuing efforts to consolidate existing strongholds and expand into areas traditionally controlled by the BJP. The merger with Kadu’s party is seen as a key step in this strategy. Shiv Sena’s chief spokesperson, Raju Waghmare, emphasized that the party’s expansion efforts are not aimed at undermining the BJP. “Every party has the right to grow, and it is incorrect to assume we are rejecting those who approach us,” Waghmare stated. He highlighted Kadu’s prior support for Shinde during the 2022 revolt, noting that his alignment with the party has not shifted significantly. Kadu’s political reentry coincided with Sena MP Pratap Jadhav assuming the role of Vidarbha’s sampark mantri. A day before Kadu’s alliance announcement, Jadhav convened a critical meeting in Nagpur with Sena officials to discuss broader expansion plans.#vidarbha #shiv_sena #eknath_shinde #bachchu_kadu #pratap_jadhav

Bachchu Kadu’s Shift to Shinde-Sena Triggers Backlash From Farm Activists A year after leading a high-profile agitation for a farm loan waiver, Prahar Janshakti leader Bachchu Kadu has faced sharp criticism from fellow activists over his decision to join the Sena faction led by deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde. The move has unsettled many within the farmers’ movement, particularly in Vidarbha, where the loan waiver demand gained significant traction. Kadu, who had emerged as a prominent figure by organizing a three-day blockade of the Nagpur-Delhi-Hyderabad highway, had previously built an independent, secular political base, largely unaffiliated with either the ruling Mahayuti alliance or the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi. His alignment with a party in power has sparked debates about his commitment to the farmers’ cause. Activists involved in last year’s protests have stated that the movement will continue without Kadu, reiterating their demand for a complete loan waiver. They emphasized that the panel headed by chief minister’s economic adviser Praveen Pardesi, which submitted its report, will be closely monitored. “We will wait till June 30 for implementation of the committee’s recommendations. If the government fails, another agitation will be launched,” said leaders associated with the protest. However, the backlash against Kadu has intensified, with social media platforms becoming a hub for criticism. Farmer groups have questioned his political motives, with some accusing him of seeking personal gain. One activist remarked that his decision exposed “how desperate” he was for a legislative council position, while another described him as “a claimant of the chief minister’s post, now desperate for power.” Despite the criticism, some veteran voices have urged a more measured perspective.#vidarbha #eknath_shinde #bachchu_kadu #praveen_pardesi #nagpur_delhi_hyderabad_highway

Bhandara Nagar Parishad developing 9 more parks Nagpur: Bhandara Nagar Parishad is developing nine additional parks in addition to the three that already exist, according to information shared with the Legislative Council by the state government. MLC Dr Parinay Fuke raised questions about the condition of parks in Bhandara city and the maintenance of the Ravvanwadi lake area. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde confirmed that nine new open plots are being developed with features such as benches, children’s equipment, walking tracks, drinking water facilities, and seating for senior citizens. A special scheme allocated Rs 1 crore for the park development project. The three existing parks are maintained using funds from the Nagar Parishad. Three security guards have been deployed for cleanliness and crowd management at the parks. The parks department employs one garden supervisor and two gardeners on permanent service, supported by seven contractual workers for maintenance. Regarding the Ravvanwadi lake area, which is frequently associated with Bhandara’s parks, Shinde clarified that it falls under the jurisdiction of the Ravvanwadi Gram Panchayat and is managed by the Forest Department. A Rs 19.60 crore tourism development project for the area was approved by the Maharashtra Nature Tourism Development Corporation’s 22nd executive committee on February 6, 2024, and the proposal was submitted to the Forest Department for administrative approval on September 22, 2025. No timeline has been provided for the Forest Department’s clearance, the completion of the nine open plots, or the full utilization of the Rs 1 crore sanctioned amount.#eknath_shinde #dr_parinay_fuke #bhandara_nagar_parishad #ravvanwadi_gram_panchayat #maharashtra_nature_tourism_development_corporation

Marathi New Year Celebrated with Processions and Religious Gatherings Across State The first day of the traditional Marathi New Year, known as Gudi Padwa, was marked by vibrant processions and religious ceremonies in cities across Maharashtra. Residents engaged in the celebrations by displaying the Gudi, a symbolic flag, and participating in community events. The festivities included processions in Mumbai, Thane, Nagpur, and other regions, accompanied by traditional music ensembles. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis joined a procession in Nagpur, where a collective recitation of the Ramraksha Stotra took place. Addressing the gathering, Mr. Fadnavis highlighted the cultural significance of the festival and encouraged citizens to embrace positive resolutions for the new year. He emphasized the importance of collective efforts in driving national progress. In Thane, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde participated in a procession that began at the Kopineshwar Temple. The event attracted MLAs Sanjay Kelkar and Niranjan Davkhare, along with MP Naresh Maske. Citizens lined the streets to witness the procession, which featured performances by Dhol and Tasha troupes and Lezim dancers. In Dombivli, a unique procession showcased women riding motorcycles and bicycles, all dressed in traditional attire and displaying the Gudi on their vehicles. At the Tuljabhavani Temple, the Gudi was hoisted on the temple spire after the morning Aarti. A worship ceremony was conducted by the chief priests, while the Vitthal-Rukmini Temple was adorned with floral decorations. Devotees across the state visited temples, as the day is regarded as one of the three-and-a-half auspicious moments in the Hindu calendar.#devendra_fadnavis #gudi_padwa #marathi_new_year #eknath_shinde #tuljabhavani_temple