In a pointed remark during his address in Maharashtra, Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a dig at the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), comparing their struggle over the chief ministerial candidate to a “fight for the driver’s seat in a gaadi (vehicle).” The MVA, a coalition of the Shiv Sena (UBT), Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction), and the Congress, has yet to reach a consensus on its leadership if it comes to power in the state.
PM Modi suggested that internal disagreements within the coalition may pose challenges to stability, as leaders reportedly jockey for the top position. “It’s a case of too many drivers wanting to take the wheel,” he remarked, indicating that the lack of a clear leader could lead to discord within the coalition.
The MVA, formed with a common goal of opposing the BJP in Maharashtra, has frequently faced questions about its leadership structure. Although prominent leaders Uddhav Thackeray, Sharad Pawar, and other senior Congress figures have led the alliance, they have yet to announce a unanimous choice for chief minister if they secure victory in the upcoming elections.
Maharashtra BJP leaders have echoed PM Modi’s sentiment, highlighting what they call a lack of “strong and unified leadership” in the MVA. Meanwhile, the MVA has dismissed the remarks, claiming that unity remains strong within the coalition and that leadership decisions will be made in the best interest of the state.
The PM’s comments underscore the stakes for both BJP and MVA as the battle for Maharashtra intensifies, with both sides focusing on how best to appeal to the state’s diverse voter base.
