Mumbai Diary | Congress to get new Maha party prez soon
Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, along with the Gandhi family, has reportedly shortlisted a few names for the next Maharashtra party chief. The prominent names circulating include MLC Satej Patil and Congress MLA Amit Deshmukh. Both Patil and Deshmukh have requested time to consider their interest in the position. The fact that the party is not in power is seen as a deterrent, making leaders hesitant to pursue this top state party position. Responsibility of managing the office and rejuvenating a party that suffered significant losses in the assembly polls will heavily weigh on whoever takes on this role.
Despite huge mandate, Mahayuti on knife edge
Despite winning a significant mandate in the state Assembly, Mahayuti faces a major challenge in running the government smoothly. Accommodating numerous aspirants and addressing concerns of disgruntled ministers and MLAs has led CM Fadnavis to create the role of co-guardian minister for three districts. Typically, each district has one guardian minister; however, this time, the CM appointed two guardian ministers for each of the following districts: Kolhapur, Gadchiroli, and Mumbai suburbs. This decision came as a necessity to appease the alliance partners.
‘Public bearing brunt of ministers’ absence’
The Mantralaya has taken on a deserted and forlorn appearance, as many ministers seem to prefer working from the comfort of their homes instead of being present in the office, which is causing inconvenience for the public. Most ministers work remotely after attending cabinet meetings. CM Devendra Fadnavis’s directive during a cabinet meeting – stating that ministers should be present in their respective offices for at least three days a week to sign files and meet with the public – has not made a significant impact. The CM said they can spend the remaining days in their constituencies and attend programs in other locations.
Sudhir Suryawanshi
Our correspondent in Maharashtra
suryawanshi.sudhir@gmail.com