Maharashtra Cabinet Meeting Dispute Clarified Amid Political Buzz

Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule clarified that the absence of most Shiv Sena ministers from a cabinet meeting was not a boycott but due to election duties. Despite rumors of a rift over BJP's induction of Sena leaders, officials confirmed no discontent in the Mahayuti coalition.

In response to widespread speculation about a potential boycott by Shiv Sena ministers, Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule has clarified that their absence from a recent cabinet meeting was due to electoral responsibilities rather than political tensions.

The absence of Shiv Sena ministers, apart from Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, sparked rumors of a protest against the BJP for incorporating Sena members across various regions, including Thane and Palghar.

However, Bawankule emphasized that many ministers were occupied with tasks related to the local body elections and had informed Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis of their inability to attend. Similarly, Minister Uday Samant and BJP's Girish Mahajan dismissed allegations of a rift, maintaining that the coalition remains united and focused on the electoral process.

(With inputs from agencies.)