Mumbai: The Maharashtra Legislature’s budget session, starting on Monday, February 23, is set to witness an unusual and historic situation. For the first time since the state was formed, both the Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council will function without an officially recognised Leader of the Opposition.
This development has emerged because opposition parties do not have the minimum required number of members in either House to claim the constitutional post.
Opposition Falls Short in Numbers
In the Legislative Assembly, the opposition lacks the numerical strength needed to qualify for the Leader of the Opposition’s position. The situation is similar in the 78-member Legislative Council, where the opposition’s presence weakened further after the resignation of Congress MLC Pragnya Satav late last year.
Due to this political arithmetic, neither House meets the formal criteria required for appointing an opposition leader. As per legislative rules, the Leader of the Opposition can be recognised only if a party has a minimum of 10% of the total members in the House.
MVA Flags Democratic Concerns
The Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) has strongly criticised the situation, warning that it weakens democratic checks and balances. The alliance has argued that the Leader of the Opposition plays a crucial role in questioning the government, scrutinising legislation, and ensuring accountability.
According to Sanjay Raut, the absence of a recognised opposition leader reflects a disturbing trend. He alleged that democracy suffers when institutional opposition is sidelined, calling the development damaging for the legislative system.
Allegations of Arrogance by Ruling Alliance
Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Bhaskar Jadhav accused the ruling Mahayuti alliance of political arrogance. He claimed that allowing both Houses to function without a Leader of the Opposition shows a disregard for democratic traditions and healthy debate.
The opposition believes that a strong majority should not come at the cost of silencing dissenting voices inside the legislature.
Government Calls It a Procedural Matter
Reacting to the criticism, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said the issue does not fall under the government’s control. He clarified that the appointment of a Leader of the Opposition is the responsibility of the Speaker of the Assembly and the Chairman of the Legislative Council.
The Chief Minister declined to comment further, stating that it is a procedural issue governed by legislative rules.
Opposition Skips Traditional Tea Party
Ahead of the budget session, the Maha Vikas Aghadi boycotted the customary high-tea hosted by the government. The event, usually held to promote dialogue between ruling and opposition parties, saw no participation from MVA leaders.
Bhaskar Jadhav said the decision was taken collectively by alliance partners, despite personal invitations sent by the Chief Minister. The boycott is being seen as a symbolic protest against the government’s functioning.
Session to Begin With Condolence Motion
The budget session will open with a condolence motion in memory of Ajit Pawar. Meanwhile, legislators from the NCP (SP), including Rohit Pawar, are expected to raise questions related to the circumstances surrounding Ajit Pawar’s alleged aircraft incident.
Political observers believe the issue could lead to heated discussions during the session.
