Former Maharashtra Home Minister Claims BJP Leaders Want To Join NCP-SCP

Former Maharashtra Home Minister Anil Deshmukh alleges that senior BJP leaders are dissatisfied with government handling of issues and looking to join NCP-SCP. He criticizes government's inaction on important laws and misuse of central agencies against opposition leaders, announcing a protest to awaken the central government.

Former Maharashtra Home Minister and NCP-SCP leader Anil Deshmukh has asserted that some senior BJP leaders are in talks with his party, expressing dissatisfaction with the current government's management of state issues. Deshmukh's claims cast doubt on the strength of the Mahayuti Alliance.

Deshmukh told ANI that key BJP leaders are discontented with the government's handling of unemployment, inflation, and farmers' distress in Maharashtra. He stated that the alliance between Ajit Pawar, Eknath Shinde, and the BJP is weaker than expected, cautioning that if this continues, the BJP might contest future elections independently from NCP and Shiv Sena. He also criticized Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis for focusing on breaking opposition parties instead of addressing law and order issues.

Referencing the Badlapur incident, Deshmukh lamented the absence of quick punishment provisions in law, highlighting his efforts to introduce 'Shakti Kanoon' for expedited justice during his tenure. He revealed that while the law had been passed by the state legislature and approved by the Cabinet, it has been stalled by the central government for three years. He urged Fadnavis to push for its implementation but accused him of being preoccupied with political infighting.

Moreover, Deshmukh accused the government of using agencies like the ED and the Income Tax Department against dissenting leaders. In response, he announced a protest by his party's female leaders, who would wear black armbands to demand action from the central government. He also criticized efforts to provide Sharad Pawar with Z+ security, which Pawar declined, suggesting it was a means to monitor him.

(With inputs from agencies.)