Shinde Revisits 2022 Political Crisis During Assam Visit
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday turned nostalgic while attending the swearing-in ceremony of Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma in Guwahati, recalling the politically charged events of 2022 that reshaped Maharashtra politics.
Speaking at the event, Shinde reflected on the period when rebel Shiv Sena MLAs had stayed in Assam during the political crisis, stating, “Assam ka Maharashtra se bahut purana rishta hai,” highlighting what he described as a long-standing bond between the two states.
Radisson Hotel Stay Recalled in Emotional Remarks
Shinde also recalled that the group had stayed at the Radisson Hotel in Guwahati during the political turmoil, adding that the experience remained significant in his political journey. He credited Himanta Biswa Sarma and his team for their support during that period, saying their role was crucial at a defining moment.
Praise for Mandate and Development Focus
Referring to recent political developments, Shinde said the people of Maharashtra had supported the formation of the Mahayuti alliance government, which he claimed has since focused on development and governance. He further stated that divine blessings, including those of Maa Kamakhya, had once again favoured Himanta Biswa Sarma, as Assam witnessed what he described as a strong electoral mandate.
Backdrop of 2022 Maharashtra Political Crisis
In June 2022, Eknath Shinde led a major rebellion within the undivided Shiv Sena against the then Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government headed by Uddhav Thackeray. The group initially moved from Maharashtra to Surat in Gujarat before shifting to Guwahati, where the political developments gained national attention.
Over 40 MLAs, including ministers and independents, eventually aligned with Shinde, leading to the collapse of the MVA government. Following the crisis, the BJP supported Shinde’s claim to leadership, resulting in the formation of a new government in Maharashtra.
Assam CM Swearing-In Ceremony and NDA Victory
The remarks came during the oath-taking ceremony where Himanta Biswa Sarma was sworn in as Chief Minister of Assam for a second consecutive term at the Veterinary College ground in Khanapara, Guwahati. The oath was administered by Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya at 11:40 am, along with four other MLAs who took office as ministers.
The NDA registered a landslide victory in the Assam Assembly elections, securing 102 seats in the 126-member House. The BJP alone won 82 seats, while allies Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) won 10 seats each, comfortably crossing the majority mark of 64 seats.
