A lively press conference filled with humor and laughter unfolded as Maharashtra's CM and Deputy CM discussed their roles in a convivial exchange. Deputy CM Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar engaged in a light-hearted banter about the 'CM's chair,' setting the press room echoing with laughter.
Initially, Deputy CM Eknath Shinde remarked that, although it's the onset of a new term for our government, we're fundamentally the same. Only the 'CM's chair' has moved between Devendra Fadnavis and me, while Ajit Dada (Ajit Pawar) maintains his position, leaving him tension-free. To this, Ajit Pawar humorously responded, 'If you couldn't save your CM chair, what can I do?' eliciting further laughter.
Shinde promptly clarified that this is all based on mutual understanding. CM Devendra Fadnavis then jokingly added that there exists a 'rotating understanding' between us.
A comical response to the 'Cold War' query
Amidst queries about discord in the coalition, Fadnavis confidently stated, 'You might try to drum up conflict for your breaking news, but our alliance is unbreakable.' He playfully questioned, 'How can there be a 'Cold War' in such heat? Everything between us is 'cool and composed.'
Fadnavis's Dig at the Opposition
Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis targeted the opposition, humorously noting that their real stance resembles 'Hum Saath Saath Hain,' while their reality is a questionable 'Who Are We?' He commented on them boycotting the government's traditional tea party with a six-page note describing reasons, amusingly pointing out it was missing two expected signatures. He quipped, 'They claim the desire for better dialogue yet skip the tea for dialogue; what hypocrisy!'
On CMO's Stay Orders
Recent reports suggested CMO instituted stays on several projects. Fadnavis clarified, 'Issuing a stay based on a legislator’s letter isn’t appropriate. Decisions are made post-investigation and considering both sides.' Fadnavis humorously remarked, 'I now regularly check which files reach the office with a stay order, only to realize I didn't authorize any.'
No 'One-upmanship' Between Shinde and Me
CM Devendra Fadnavis cleared up any speculation by stating there's no 'one-upmanship' or attempts to 'sidelining' with Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. He urged media to represent all sides without jumping to conclusions or presenting a one-sided story.
Warning on Controversial Audio Clip About Shivaji Maharaj
CM Devendra Fadnavis sternly warned those disrespecting Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, promising strict actions. He further chastised the opposition, reminding them not to lecture us when it comes from those who beautify Afzal Guru's tombs and support figures like Ishrat Jahan.
Commentary on Rekha Khadse's Daughter's Harassment Case
Regarding the harassment case of Rekha Khadse's daughter, CM Fadnavis stated he personally spoke to Rekha Khadse and issued a statement based on her information. He assured that no one asked him to protect the accused and vowed stringent action against the culprits.