Maharashtra's political landscape is once again witnessing unrest, this time sparked by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde's perceived grievances. His exclusion from delivering a speech at an event commemorating Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar's birth anniversary has brought his discontent back into the spotlight.
Maharashtra: Eknath Shinde, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister and a prominent leader of the Shinde Sena faction, is once again making headlines, this time through his conspicuous silence. The occasion was Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar's birth anniversary, and the venue was Chaityabhoomi, where prominent state leaders typically pay their respects and share their views. However, Shinde's voice was notably absent from the stage this year.
Denied Speaking Opportunity, Shinde Returns to Thane
Initially, the program booklet for the event organized by the Mumbai Municipal Corporation on Ambedkar Jayanti listed speeches by both Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar. However, a last-minute change granted speaking opportunities only to Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. This change was evident not only in the revised program but also in Shinde's visible displeasure. He left for his hometown, Thane, immediately after the event concluded.
Delivers 'Chaityabhoomi' Speech in Thane
At a press conference in Thane, Eknath Shinde delivered the speech he was intended to give at Chaityabhoomi. This was a symbolic yet powerful message – even if not from the intended platform, he would express his views and pay his respects to Dr. Ambedkar. While responding to reporters' questions, Shinde stated that paying homage at Chaityabhoomi was an honor, but the change in venue and style clearly indicated that all was not well.
Subdued Tone, but a Strong Message?
Shinde's silence on the main stage spoke volumes. This is not the first instance of his being overlooked. Previously, during a Shivaji Jayanti event in Raigad, he was initially not scheduled to speak, but a last-minute intervention by Devendra Fadnavis secured him a slot. This time, however, it appears that no such intervention occurred. These recurring events raise questions about whether Shinde is being given an equal standing within the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance.
Just a day prior, Shinde had dismissed rumors of fissures within the MVA, stating that they focus on work, not complaints. However, this damage-control statement only raises more questions. Reports suggest Shinde has complained to the central leadership about Ajit Pawar's behavior, although he publicly denies this.
Analyzing the Political Signals
While Eknath Shinde maintains a publicly calm demeanor, his recent statements, actions, and the strategy of delivering his speech at a press conference after being excluded from the main stage clearly indicate his awareness of his position within the MVA. Repeated exclusion from prominent platforms could damage his political standing, and Shinde may be signaling that he will not tolerate this.
