Maharashtra's Political Dynamics: Pawar's Significant Ganesh Visit

Ajit Pawar, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and NCP head, visited CM Eknath Shinde's residence for Ganesh prayers. His visit comes at a time of tension within the ruling Mahayuti alliance. Controversies and internal conflicts, especially with Shiv Sena, mark the backdrop of the upcoming Maharashtra polls.

Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) leader Ajit Pawar made a significant visit to Varsha, the official residence of Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, late Wednesday to offer prayers to Lord Ganesh. Pawar was joined by his party colleague Praful Patel, as stated in an official release.

This visit is crucial as it takes place amid the ongoing tensions within the ruling Mahayuti alliance, consisting of Pawar's NCP, Shinde's Shiv Sena, and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The alliance faces internal conflicts ahead of the upcoming Maharashtra elections likely scheduled for October-November.

Recently, Shiv Sena minister Tanaji Sawant sparked controversy by expressing discomfort over sitting next to NCP leaders in cabinet meetings, saying it made him feel like vomiting. Additionally, Sena ministers were upset with the NCP for excluding Shinde's name from advertisements and promotional materials for the 'Ladki Bahin Yojana' during its 'Jan Sanman Yatra' outreach program. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also held a meeting with Mahayuti leaders during his Mumbai visit on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies.)