As the reservation controversy intensifies ahead of the October Assembly elections, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) Minister Chhagan Bhujbal met with NCP (SP) President Sharad Pawar in Mumbai. The meeting follows Bhujbal’s recent allegations against the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and the ensuing political backlash, highlighting the deepening tensions within Maharashtra’s political landscape.
BulletsIn
- Meeting Context: Chhagan Bhujbal met with Sharad Pawar amidst a raging reservation row in Maharashtra.
- Allegations: Bhujbal accused the MVA of boycotting an all-party meeting on the reservation issue after receiving a call from Baramati.
- Backlash: Supriya Sule challenged Bhujbal to identify the caller and check call details.
- Political Speculation: Bhujbal’s claims coincided with Ajit Pawar launching the NCP’s poll campaign from Baramati.
- NCP (SP) Response: Vidya Chavan downplayed the meeting, stating it was routine for leaders to meet Sharad Pawar.
- Opposition Stand: Congress state President Nana Patole stated the MVA boycotted the meeting due to a lack of confidence from the government.
- Intended Resolution: The all-party meeting aimed to resolve the reservation issue and ensure justice for all.
- MVA Withdrawal: Bhujbal mentioned that the MVA leaders withdrew from the meeting following a call from Baramati.
- Ongoing Agitation: Bhujbal, a prominent OBC leader, remains in conflict with Manoj Jarange-Patil, who is leading the Maratha quota agitation.
- Reservation Stance: Bhujbal supports Maratha reservations as long as they do not affect existing OBC quotas.
