Tensions within Maharashtra’s ruling Mahayuti alliance surfaced on Tuesday after several Shiv Sena ministers skipped the weekly cabinet meeting, triggering speculation of internal rifts ahead of the upcoming civic elections. The absence was widely linked to growing resentment within the Sena over the BJP inducting its leaders and grassroots workers in various districts, including Palghar, Thane, Solapur and Kolhapur.
Shiv Sena minister Pratap Sarnaik acknowledged that there was “clear displeasure” within the party over recent political inductions, especially in Dombivli and Kalyan. However, fellow minister Uday Samant downplayed speculation of a boycott, stating that the ministers had personal commitments and health-related reasons for being absent from the meeting.
Following the cabinet session, the Sena ministers met Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and expressed concerns over the BJP’s alleged attempts to poach their workers. However, Fadnavis reportedly reminded them that the Sena too had previously absorbed BJP members in Ulhasnagar. He emphasised that alliance partners should refrain from inducting each other’s office-bearers going forward to maintain stability.
Sarnaik later said the meeting with the CM resolved the issue in “just 10 minutes,” adding that differences were natural in a coalition of three parties. According to him, both sides accepted that misunderstandings had occurred due to the competitive atmosphere ahead of local body polls.
Despite this, opposition leaders seized the opportunity to highlight friction within the ruling camp. Aaditya Thackeray accused the Shinde-led Sena of skipping the cabinet for “selfish political reasons,” calling it an insult to the people of Maharashtra. Sena (UBT) leaders Ambadas Danve and Chandrakant Khaire also alleged deepening divisions within the Mahayuti alliance.
Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, however, maintained that he sensed no discontent during the cabinet meeting, attributing the absences to election-related work and personal schedules.
