Off the Record: Political Observations from Maharashtra’s 2026 Budget Session
In my earlier blog post on www.vikrantjoshi.com, I provided a comprehensive summary of the key happenings during the Maharashtra Budget Session 2026. What follows are some candid, off-the-record observations from the session.
A Lacklustre Session and Toothless Opposition
The Budget Session turned out to be rather dull. Without a recognised Leader of Opposition in either the Legislative Assembly or the Legislative Council, the opposition appeared largely ineffective and disjointed.
Vijay Wadettiwar (Congress) tried to step up and assume the role of informal floor leader, but even Ameet Satam — a ruling alliance MLA known for his usually calm demeanour — gave him a strong rebuttal when Wadettiwar repeatedly interrupted and nudged him.
The standout performer in the Vidhan Sabha (Assembly) was undoubtedly Sudhir Mungantiwar (BJP). He remained sharp, proactive, and commanding throughout the session. Rumours suggest he may soon be given more significant responsibilities through some cabinet or organisational changes — a move that could surprise many.
Interestingly, the Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad) proved more lively than the Assembly. Opposition leaders there raised genuine and forceful voices. Among them, Anil Parab (Shiv Sena UBT) stood out as particularly aggressive and effective. He made real noise on several issues and appeared to command respect — if not fear — from the treasury benches.
Key Exposures and Missed Opportunities
In the Assembly, several important allegations of irregularities and “scams” surfaced. One that drew significant attention came from Aslam Shaikh (Congress), who highlighted serious issues in a major housing project for Project Affected Persons (PAPs) in Malad (East). His intervention raised quite a few eyebrows and prompted questions about transparency in urban redevelopment projects.
Senior bureaucrats and officers made only fleeting appearances during the session. Many ministers, too, kept a low profile.
A notable moment was the farewell reference to Uddhav Thackeray (whose MLC term was ending), with remarks from Devendra Fadnavis and Eknath Shinde. The exchange highlighted the complex and strained relationship that now exists among the former allies.
It was disappointing to see younger opposition leaders such as Aaditya Thackeray, Varun Sardesai, Sunil Prabhu, Vishwajit Kadam, and even Bhaskar Jadhav not seizing the opportunity. With no strong central opposition voice, this was their chance to build a strong public image through consistent, well-prepared interventions. Instead, they remained relatively subdued.
Bhaskar Jadhav can speak well, but he often falters when countered effectively by the government. Had I been in their position, I would have attended every sitting, maintained a ready dossier of issues and scams, and applied constant, strategic pressure through sharp questioning and better floor management.
These young opposition members could learn valuable lessons in legislative craft from Anil Parab, who demonstrated effective aggression and preparation. In the end, the ruling Mahayuti alliance had a relatively smooth ride, while those expecting strong pressure on the government were left disappointed. Opposition members were mostly reduced to walkouts.
One is reminded of the aggressive tactics used earlier by leaders like Eknath Khadse and Devendra Fadnavis when they sat in opposition — forcing adjournments even on minor issues under Speaker Dilip Walse Patil (widely regarded as one of the best). Today’s opposition seems to lack that killer instinct. Whether it stems from inadequate homework, limited commitment, or misplaced priorities of friendship and management remains a question.
Separate Personal Controversies
It is never pleasant to comment on anyone’s personal life, as none of us are perfect. However, when public figures exploit trust or misuse power, accountability becomes necessary.
Ashok Kharat, a self-styled astrologer and “godman” from Nashik, has been arrested in multiple sexual assault and rape cases. Investigations reveal he allegedly used props such as remote-controlled plastic snakes, tiger skins, and other fear tactics under the guise of spiritual rituals to exploit women, including pregnant victims. Reports suggest some top politicians and bureaucrats tried to shield him for a long time, but a senior Ahilyanagar police officer, Somanth Gharge, pushed the cases forward, bringing the matter to light.
Nashik seems unfortunately prone to such scandals. Earlier, a honey-trap case involving a resort owned by the Kute family made headlines. With the Kumbh Mela approaching, these incidents raise concerns about the city’s pious atmosphere.
Narhari Zirwal, a minister in the Maharashtra government, also found himself in controversy after a video allegedly showing him in a compromising situation with a transgender person at his official residence went viral. While personal choices are private, the incident has drawn criticism regarding the responsibility and impression a public office-bearer should maintain. The opposition has demanded his resignation, citing ethical concerns.
Vikrant Meena Hemant Joshi.
