The ongoing matter of appointing members to the Maharashtra legislative council has begun to make progress after a long period of delay. After facing multiple delays over the course of four years, the appointments are anticipated to be completed shortly, leading to an escalation in the political fight for these crucial positions. The nominations for the state assembly elections are viewed as a strategic maneuver by the ruling coalition in order to bolster its position and communicate a strong message to party members.
The Eknath Shinde-led government is now moving forward with the nominations for the 12 seats that were delayed during the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government’s term. In June 2020, the government suggested these appointments under the MVA rule, but the then-governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari did not give his approval, citing procedural issues. This resulted in accusations of intentional postponement, leading Kolhapur-based activist Sunil Modi to submit a petition in the High Court.
Following the change in power in Maharashtra in July 2022, the Mahayuti government assumed control and discarded the previous list of nominees. Currently, preparations are underway to secure these vital nominations as the state prepares for assembly elections.
Shiv Sena, led by Shinde led the way in nominating potential contenders seats allocated by the governor for MLCs within the Mahayuti coalition. Sources say that the Shinde camp has provided the BJP leadership with a list of five possible candidates, highlighting the importance of dealing with internal party dissatisfaction. Individuals who were not given tickets for the Lok Sabha elections from April to June or who were passed over for important roles in the party are being given precedence in these nominations. It has also been mentioned that individuals who were guaranteed roles in government-owned enterprises may also be involved.
Manisha Kayande, Ravindra Pathak, Chandrakant Raghuvanshi, Hemant Patil, and Sanjay More are some of the names suggested by the Shinde group. Although not officially confirmed, it is anticipated that the final list will be announced soon by the three ruling alliance partners: BJP, Shiv Sena, and Nationalist Congress Party led by Ajit Pawar.
The BJP is eager to ensure that its candidates win the most seats possible. Reports indicate that the party is demanding six out of the 12 seats and suggesting that the Shiv Sena and the NCP led by Ajit Pawar be given three seats each.
If this arrangement is accepted, it would enable the BJP to continue its control in selecting members while also securing the stability of the coalition before the assembly elections. The nominations for these 12 seats are important, as they help the ruling alliance gain political benefits and also allow for the recognition of loyal party members and handling of coalition factional issues.
As Maharashtra gets ready for assembly elections, these selections are expected to greatly influence the political scene. The completion of these nominations may put an end to the prolonged uncertainty, while also indicating the unity and strategic priorities of the ruling Mahayuti alliance.