Witnessing significant political upheaval until a year before the Lok Sabha elections, Maharashtra is now poised for an exhilarating 2024 race. In an alliance with the BJP, two factions derived from original parties are entering the fray, splitting the opposition camps. This fragmentation has undoubtedly altered the voting patterns and power equations within the state. Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis opened up on these subjects in an exclusive talk with Aaj Tak, lending insight not just on the elections but on the internal workings of the coalition and various compelling questions.
Initially discussing the state's altered political landscape and its resulting dynamics, Fadnavis stated, 'Though I'm not a pundit, I am a voter and I speak the truth. This state has become utterly predictable. Its people have decisively chosen to side with PM Modi. We shall replicate our 2014 and 2019 successes in 2024.'
Why Have PM Modi's Rallies in Maharashtra Doubled This Time?
The deputy CM responded to questions about the shift from the 2014 and 2019 elections to the current scenario, noting that PM Modi is indeed holding more rallies. The increase is attributed to more available time compared to the last compact election cycle, which limited PM Modi's appearances. Furthermore, the strategy includes organizing rallies by PM Modi for coalition parties, with the Chindhi faction of Shiv Sena and Uddhav Thackeray standing opposite each other, thereby requiring a more significant number of rallies in targeted places. Fadnavis also reassured that there was no confusion among Maharashtra's coalition, affirming the public's clear inclination towards PM Modi's camp.
Fadnavis on CM Shinde's Position
Faced with inquiries regarding Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's Shiv Sena being granted more seats, Fadnavis mentioned that a leader's stature is determined by public perception. He confidently claimed that Eknath Shinde's faction would exceed expectations and stressed the balanced nature of the BJP-Shiv Sena, NCP, and MNS coalition.
When asked about the evident shift of the Dalit and Muslim votes to Uddhav Thackeray, Fadnavis critiqued Thackeray for adopting 'pseudo-secular politics' since his collaboration with Sharad Pawar's NCP and Congress, signifying a certain shift of the Muslim vote which, according to Fadnavis, would not affect their party's stance.
NCP Was a Party of Chieftains: Fadnavis
In a response to a question, he described NCP as a party lacking ideology and made up of chieftains, and mentioned that many of those chieftains have now joined hands with Ajit Pawar and the BJP. He credited both Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar for swaying a significant portion of votes towards their coalition.
Fadnavis Comments on Ajit Pawar
On the topic of corruption charges against Ajit Pawar, Fadnavis recounted that between 2009 and 2012, his accusations against Pawar had led to an investigation that substantiated his claims. Although Pawar was not directly implicated, many officials faced suspension, dismissal, and even punishment. Nevertheless, Fadnavis emphasized that Ajit Pawar is now allied with them, and any attempt of persuasion was never part of their political discourse.
Sharing behind-the-scenes insights, the deputy CM discussed Sharad Pawar's failed attempts to join BJP. He suggested that Pawar used Ajit Pawar as a front to maintain control over the party. Lastly, Fadnavis affirmed that he is not someone to work on conditions but will fulfil whatever role his party deems necessary, even if it means stepping away from positions of power.
