The winter session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly is poised for a contentious start tomorrow, as major issues such as Maratha reservation and farmers’ loan waiver take center stage. This session becomes a litmus test for the ruling Mahayuti and opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalitions, setting the tone for the 2024 Lok Sabha and Assembly polls. The BJP, fresh from a triumphant three-state win, is expected to assert its dominance, while the MVA aims to present a united front against Chief Minister Eknath Shinde-led Mahayuti.
Regarding the critical issue of reservation, a government source mentioned, “The state government is likely to bring a resolution to reaffirm its commitment to Maratha reservation without impacting the existing OBC quota in Maharashtra.”
Farmers’ concerns will also be in the spotlight, with the opposition pushing for a loan waiver. Shiv Sena President Uddhav Thackeray criticized the government for inadequate farm insurance, and NCP’s Supriya Sule demanded a loan waiver, emphasizing the essential role of state support for farmers.
With the Lok Sabha polls approaching, both coalitions seek to reassert their identities. The NCP factions led by Sharad Pawar and Ajit Pawar have initiated a poster war in Nagpur. As the session unfolds, the coalitions face challenges in overcoming internal differences and collaborating effectively.