Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis expressed strong confidence in the Mahayuti alliance's prospects for the upcoming Maharashtra Legislative Council elections, stating that the coalition is poised to win all five contested seats. Speaking at a press conference in Pune, Fadnavis urged alliance workers and elected representatives to ramp up their campaigning efforts and engage with voters directly. He emphasized the importance of maximizing voter participation, asserting, "Preparations are good. Our workers will reach out to voters and ensure maximum participation. Mahayuti candidates will win all five seats."
In his remarks, Fadnavis identified the candidates representing the alliance for the Pune graduates’ and teachers’ constituencies, naming Smita Jadhav and Kaustubh Gawade respectively. He further mentioned that key figures like Bhaiyyasaheb Mane and Sharad Lad have pledged their support for these candidates. He detailed that the BJP will contest the Pune seat, while the Shiv Sena will handle the Amravati teachers’ constituency, and the NCP will focus on the Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar seat.
- Active campaigning urged — Fadnavis called for vigorous outreach to voters.
- Early sugarcane crushing requested — To aid farmers facing financial difficulties.
- Transparency in MPSC recruitment — Government committed to timely processes and announcements.
Addressing another pressing issue, Fadnavis highlighted the challenges faced by sugar mills due to a shortage of sugarcane and financial constraints. He urged these mills to commence crushing operations early, starting from October 15, to ensure timely payments to farmers and prevent delays that could exacerbate their financial hardships. Fadnavis stated, "This is a difficult year. Sugarcane availability is low, and the crushing season may be shorter. Factories are also facing financial difficulties." He added that when factories remain closed, mills in Karnataka bring sugarcane from Maharashtra.
On the topic of recruitment transparency, Fadnavis reassured Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) aspirants that the government is dedicated to conducting fair and timely examinations. He mentioned that an inquiry committee has been established, and recommendations from the V Radha committee are being awaited. He stressed the need for timely announcements regarding vacancies, exams, and results, stating, "We want transparency in MPSC. An inquiry committee has been appointed, and the V Radha committee has made useful suggestions. We are awaiting its report."
In light of the ongoing drought impacting farmers across the state, Fadnavis revealed that the government has introduced twelve measures to combat drought conditions, extending assistance to 365 talukas. He announced an increase in advance relief for farmers, now set at ₹5,000, compared to the previous minimum aid of around ₹1,000. He explained, "We do not want farmers to be deprived of assistance because of technical reasons. Since the regular drought-relief process could not provide immediate help, we decided to give ₹5,000 as advance assistance."
Finally, in response to speculation regarding the mood of Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Fadnavis dismissed the rumors, asserting, "Shinde Saheb is not upset. You are upset. You are spreading rumours in his name." This statement aimed to quell any concerns about discord within the alliance as the elections approach.
