Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai
Mumbai, Mar 1: The Shiv Sena (UBT) is set to stake its claim for the Leader of the Opposition (LoP) position in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, despite concerns over numerical strength. The decision was taken at a key meeting chaired by party chief Uddhav Thackeray on Friday and Saturday, ahead of the upcoming budget session starting on March 3 in Mumbai.
Confirming the move, Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut stated that while the party has fewer legislators, there is no constitutional provision mandating that the Assembly function without an opposition leader. "Even with limited numbers, the Opposition’s presence is crucial. The post of Leader of the Opposition cannot remain vacant," Raut asserted.
Echoing this stance, Ambadas Danve, the Leader of Opposition in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, emphasized that the party would formally present its claim soon, with Thackeray expected to announce their official position.
Front Runners for the Post
Party insiders revealed that Aaditya Thackeray, Bhaskar Jadhav, and Chief Whip Sunil Prabhu are the leading contenders for the LoP position. Shiv Sena (UBT), which is part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance, had previously refrained from claiming the post during the winter session in December, despite discussing the issue with its allies.
With Congress holding 16 seats and NCP-SP 10, both parties have reportedly indicated support for Shiv Sena’s claim, adding weight to their demand.
Challenges and Counterarguments
However, BJP-backed Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat dismissed the claim, stating that the Opposition lacks the required numbers. "None of the MVA parties have the numerical strength needed for the post. The final decision rests with the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly Speaker, Rahul Narwekar," he argued.
Shirsat also questioned the MVA’s internal consensus, suggesting that no alliance partner had openly backed Shiv Sena (UBT) for the LoP position. "Without clear backing from its allies, the uncertainty over the LoP post will persist in this session as well," he added.
Final Decision Rests with Speaker
Sources within the Maharashtra Legislative Secretariat confirmed that Speaker Rahul Narwekar will examine legislative norms before making a ruling on the Thackeray camp’s claim. With the budget session looming, the decision could shape the dynamics of the Opposition’s role in the state assembly in the coming months.