**Maharashtra’s Mahayuti Alliance Faces Internal Strife Over Ministerial Staff**
Tensions are escalating within Maharashtra’s ruling Mahayuti alliance as Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis takes decisive action against the unauthorized retention of Personal Secretaries (PS) and Officers on Special Duty (OSDs) by several ministers from the Shiv Sena and the Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). Despite multiple directives, some PSs and OSDs have continued to serve their preferred ministers, prompting Fadnavis to issue disciplinary notices to six non-compliant staff members.
The controversy involves prominent Shiv Sena ministers, including Sanjay Rathod, Shambhuraj Desai, Bharat Gogawale, and Gulabrao Patil, alongside NCP leaders Dattatray Bharne and Chhagan Bhujbal. The appointments of these PSs were previously halted due to allegations of irregularities. Reports indicate that many of these aides, some of whom have held their positions for years, are under investigation for alleged corruption and the accumulation of disproportionate assets.
In a bid to enhance transparency, Fadnavis had previously appointed two officials from the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) to screen and interview all PS and OSD candidates for the cabinet. This vetting process resulted in the suspension of numerous appointments, particularly those involving long-serving aides. However, the ongoing defiance from certain staff members has led to the implementation of stricter measures.
“These notices represent a significant step towards ensuring accountability. The government is dedicated to eradicating corruption and upholding discipline,” stated a senior bureaucrat, who requested anonymity.
The opposition has capitalized on this situation, viewing it as indicative of growing discord within the Mahayuti coalition. Congress leader Vijay Wadettiwar remarked, “This issue transcends personal secretaries; it highlights the lack of coordination and trust among alliance partners. The Chief Minister’s directives are being openly disregarded, revealing the fragility of his control.”
Ambadas Danve, the Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, echoed these concerns, noting that complaints regarding corrupt PSs and OSDs have been received. He confirmed that this issue would be addressed in the upcoming monsoon session, asserting that the notices were a necessary response to the situation.
In the midst of this turmoil, cabinet minister Ashish Shelar emphasized that only Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis could provide comprehensive clarity on the matter.
**FAQ**
**What actions is Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis taking regarding unauthorized staff in Maharashtra?**
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis is issuing disciplinary notices to staff members who are unlawfully retained by ministers, aiming to enhance accountability and combat corruption within the government.
