Maharashtra: Amid evolving political developments, Governor BS Koshyari and CM Uddhav Thackeray test COVID-19 positive

Mumbai: At a time when the Maharashtra political crisis is taking shape following the rebellion by Shiv Sena Minister Eknath Shinde and other legislators, Governor BS Koshyari and Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray on Wednesday were tested COVID-19 positive. This is certainly an important development as the role of the Governor is crucial during the present scenario while Thackeray faces the huge challenge of survival of the Maha Vikas Aghadi government.

‘’I have been tested positive for COVID-19. There are only mild symptoms. However I have been admitted to a Hospital as a precautionary measure,’’ said Koshyari in his tweet. The Raj Bhavan also clarified that the Governor is stable and there are no talks of handing over his charge to the other Governor (Goa Governor). ‘’If anyone wants to get in contact with the Governor, can do it via video conference,’’ it added.

Hours after Raj Bhavan confirmed that Governor was detected with COVID-19, the Chief Minister’s Office said, ‘’CM Uddhav Thackeray’s antigen COVID 19 test came positive and he is isolated in his official residence Varsha.’’

However, Thackeray from his home chaired a state cabinet meeting online and hoped that the cooperation he received from all ministerial colleagues will continue in future too. Further, he shocked the ministers by discussing with them the present COVID-19 scenario and asked the public health minister Rajesh Tope about the possibility of making use of masks mandatory. He added that a decision will be taken in consultation with the Task Force.

Further, the state cabinet did not discuss any proposal on recommending the dissolution of the state assembly to the Governor. This was confirmed by several ministers including Ajit Pawar, Jayant Patil and Nitin Raut.

Thereafter, Thackeray delivered a Facebook address and declared that he was ready to step down as CM and also as the Shiv Sena President.

Published on: Wednesday, June 22, 2022, 09:26 PM IST