Ahead of the upcoming Maharashtra elections, the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance released a scathing white paper titled “Gaddarancha Panchnama” accusing Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s Mahayuti coalition of betraying the state’s values and people. The document, presented by NCP (SCP) leader Sharad Pawar, Congress chief Nana Patole, and Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Uddhav Thackeray, highlights several alleged government failures, including corruption, women’s safety, and job creation.
Corruption Allegations Against the Mahayuti Govt
The white paper accused the Shinde-led government of indulging in corruption even while building the iconic statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. MVA leaders claimed that the Mahayuti government has dishonored Maharashtra’s legacy, particularly the teachings of Phule, Shahu, and Ambedkar. “Let us banish these traitors,” the booklet urged the public, referring to the government as the “Khoke Sarkar” and listing multiple alleged scams.
Concerns Over Women’s Safety and Mismanaged Schemes
The MVA booklet emphasized the rising crimes against women, stating that under Devendra Fadnavis’s leadership, Maharashtra saw 129 daily crimes against women. Sharad Pawar also criticized the Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin income support scheme, accusing the government of failing to provide clear budgeting and financial provisions for the initiative. “If they provide financial clarity, we won’t oppose it,” said Pawar.
Failed Job Creation Promises
The white paper also pointed out the government’s failure to meet its job creation promises. According to MVA, the NDA government has broken its pledge of creating 5 crore new jobs and failed to fill over 2 lakh vacant government positions.
Uddhav Thackeray’s Challenge on CM Face
Shiv Sena leader Uddhav Thackeray challenged the ruling Mahayuti to declare their Chief Ministerial candidate. He asserted that MVA would announce its CM face once the Mahayuti declares theirs.