Political Tensions Rise in Maharashtra: Shiv Sena's Unease with BJP

Shiv Sena ministers largely skipped Maharashtra's cabinet meeting led by Devendra Fadnavis, suggesting growing tensions with ally BJP. Ajit Pawar, leader of the NCP, claimed he didn't detect any discontent during the meeting. Sena's grievance stems from BJP's influential presence, especially after recent defections.

In a significant development on Tuesday, the majority of Shiv Sena ministers chose to absent themselves from the Maharashtra cabinet meeting headed by Devendra Fadnavis, stirring speculations of rising tensions within the ruling alliance.

Ajit Pawar, the Deputy Chief Minister and NCP leader, remarked that he did not perceive any discord among the attendees, although only Eknath Shinde from the Shiv Sena attended the meeting. The absence is being interpreted as a signal of discontent with the BJP, particularly following the defection of Sena leaders to the BJP in Kalyan-Dombivli.

Political insiders suggest the move was designed to demonstrate the Sena's dissatisfaction with the BJP's tactics of attracting its members. However, Pawar dismissed the notion of a rift, attributing absences to the ongoing nomination scrutinies for upcoming municipal polls.

(With inputs from agencies.)