Shinde vs Fadnavis? Invitation Controversy Sparks Rift Buzz in Maharashtra’s Mahayuti Alliance
Eknath Shinde’s alleged exclusion from a key Navi Mumbai airport event fuels speculation of growing tensions and a political credit war within the ruling coalition.
A controversy surrounding a high-profile event invitation at the Navi Mumbai International Airport has triggered fresh political speculation in Maharashtra, raising questions about unity within the ruling Mahayuti alliance.
The dispute emerged after Deputy Chief Minister and Urban Development Minister Eknath Shinde’s name was reportedly missing from the guest list of an unveiling ceremony for a 20-foot statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj at the airport site. The incident has intensified discussions about possible friction between Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Shinde.
The issue has drawn attention because CIDCO, one of the key agencies associated with the ambitious airport project, falls directly under Shinde’s ministry. Political observers have interpreted the omission as more than just an administrative oversight, fueling speculation of an internal battle over political credit.
The event, jointly organized by Adani Airport Authority and CIDCO, was attended by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, former minister Aditi Tatkare, and Forest Minister Ganesh Naik. Reports also claimed that Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Pawar’s name was removed from the guest list.
Leaders from Shinde-led Shiv Sena expressed displeasure, rejecting claims that the omission was accidental. State Minister Sanjay Shirsat alleged that certain bureaucratic sections were working under political pressure and attempting to deny due credit for the project.
As criticism mounted, the Chief Minister’s Office reportedly intervened, issuing notices to CIDCO and the Adani Airport Authority seeking explanations over the alleged protocol lapse.
The controversy has also provided ammunition to the opposition, with Shiv Sena (UBT) leaders mocking Shinde’s position in the alliance and pointing to growing tensions within the Mahayuti government.
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