Mumbai: Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Monday sharply criticised the Maharashtra government for failing to recognise a Leader of the Opposition in both Houses of the state legislature, describing the situation as damaging to democratic functioning.
Speaking to reporters, Raut questioned how legislative business could be carried out without a formal opposition voice. He argued that the presence of a Leader of the Opposition is essential in any parliamentary system to ensure accountability and balance of power.
Allegation of Intentional Delay
Raut accused the ruling dispensation of deliberately postponing the decision. He said the government’s hesitation was puzzling, especially when it claims to enjoy a strong majority in the state. According to him, avoiding the appointment signals discomfort with scrutiny rather than confidence in governance.
He maintained that repeated legislative sessions without a recognised opposition leader set a troubling precedent and weaken the democratic process.
Unprecedented Situation During Budget Session
The ongoing Budget Session has highlighted a rare political situation in Maharashtra. For the first time since the state’s formation, both the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and the Maharashtra Legislative Council are functioning without a formally recognised Leader of the Opposition at the same time.
The current Assembly came into existence after the 2024 elections, and its first session was held in December that year. Conventionally, the Leader of the Opposition is named during the inaugural sitting.
10% Rule Cited as Roadblock
The Speaker has not taken a final call on the appointment, citing legislative rules that require the largest opposition party to hold at least 10 per cent of the total strength of the House. At present, no opposition party has crossed this numerical threshold, making it technically ineligible for the post.
A similar deadlock exists in the Legislative Council, where the opposition leadership position has remained vacant since the term of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve ended last year.
Pending Proposal in Council
The Congress later recommended the name of Satej Patil for the Leader of the Opposition’s post in the Council and formally communicated this to Chairman Ram Shinde during the Winter Session in December 2025. However, the proposal has not seen any progress, further fuelling opposition criticism.
