No Rift, In Mahayuti Says Maharashtra Ruling Alliance Amid Rumours Of Rift Within Party

The Mahayuti coalition in Maharashtra has forcefully refuted claims of internal discord as the state assembly's budget session approaches. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the media, categorically denying any "Cold War" among the ruling partners. "Both myself and Eknath Shinde know our working relationship. We have demonstrated our unity by effectively countering the opposition and securing a decisive victory in the Assembly," Fadnavis stated.  

His remarks followed a Cabinet meeting and the customary pre-budget tea gathering, which was notably boycotted by the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). Fadnavis contrasted the alliance's cohesion with the MVA's internal strife, asserting, "Unlike them, we are united. They are plagued by tension and resentment."  

He further criticized the opposition's absence from the tea meeting, highlighting the disarray within their ranks. "We invited the opposition for the traditional 'Chahapan,' but they chose to abstain. Their subsequent meeting was poorly attended by their leadership. They submitted a nine-page letter with inconsistencies in signatures and issues derived solely from media reports," Fadnavis pointed out.

Speculation about a rift within the Mahayuti alliance had intensified in recent weeks, fueled by reports suggesting that Eknath Shinde, who ceded the Chief Minister's position to Fadnavis, harbored lingering discontent. The ruling alliance, however, remains adamant that they are unified and focused on the upcoming budget session.