Sanjay Raut Criticizes 'Duplicate Shiv Sena' Amid Maharashtra Election Preparations

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut announced the nearing completion of seat-sharing discussions for the Maha Vikas Aghadi ahead of Maharashtra elections. He criticized the 'duplicate Shiv Sena' for seeking approval from Delhi, amidst recent terrorist attacks in Baramulla and ongoing government security failures.

Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut revealed on Friday that discussions for the Maha Vikas Aghadi's seat-sharing arrangements are almost complete, with the finalized list expected by Monday. Raut spoke to the press, highlighting that negotiations concerning nearly all seats have been wrapped up. Upcoming discussions include smaller alliance parties.

The nomination process for the Maharashtra assembly elections, scheduled for November 20, has commenced. The assembly encompasses 288 seats, with results slated for release on November 23.

Raut criticized Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis's trip to Delhi, arguing that Balasaheb Thackeray's original Shiv Sena never sought seat-sharing agreements in the capital. He accused the faction loyal to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde of being a 'duplicate Shiv Sena' beholden to its Delhi bosses.

On Thursday, a pivotal meeting occurred in Delhi between Home Minister Amit Shah and BJP-led Mahayuti alliance leaders, including prominent officials like Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and others. Raut dismissed Deputy CM Fadnavis's confidence in Mahayuti's election prospects, arguing that real outcomes will only be clear post-results.

In light of a terrorist assault on a military vehicle in Baramulla, which resulted in casualties, Raut criticized the government's national security handling, dubbing the Prime Minister and Home Minister as failures. Raut questioned their priorities, urging attention beyond political maneuvering.

(With inputs from agencies.)