Delay in distribution of portfolios fanning speculations

 

 

 

 

On December 15, 2024, new Cabinet of Maharashtra Government took oath at ‘Raj Bhavan’ here. Since the oath-taking, no portfolios have been allotted to the ministers. The Vidhan Bhavan premises was abuzz with speculations about distribution of portfolios. Amid the suspense over the key issue, ‘The Hitavada’ spoke to some of the newly-inducted ministers who said, it would be finalised by Thursday morning. Political pundits were of the view that the consensus among Mahayuti constituents was missing over allotment of the portfolios which was causing delay. The results of Assembly polls were out on November 23. It took Mahayuti almost 12 days to finalise the Chief Minister’s name.

 

Mahayuti again made people ponder over the issue of ministerial berths in the Cabinet. The Cabinet expansion took place on the eve of Winter Session of State Legislature Assembly without announcement of the portfolios. Mahayuti leaders are dismissing speculations of any discord within the Government. Most leaders assured that ministers would soon begin serving the State with their respective portfolios. Already, Mahayuti is facing the displeasure being expressed by leaders like Chhagan Bhujbal, Sudhir Mungantiwar, etc. Tanaji Sawant, who handled portfolio of Health during Shinde-led Government, too is absent from the regular business of legislature. His name did not figure in the list of ministers. Dilip Walse Patil too has left for Pune after taking part in the business of the Assembly for two days. Concerns of factionalism within Mahayuti are being discussed. The party workers and even some ministers are aspiring for key portfolios like the Home Ministry. Since no portfolio has been allotted, the clearing of files is taking time. There are many important issues pending since the model code of conduct came into effect, most bureaucrats admitted in private.