Mumbai: In an unusual political move, the Maha Vikas Aghadi — comprising Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) — on Tuesday chose to present its case to CJI Bhushan Gavai during his visit to the Vidhan Bhavan, where he was being felicitated by the legislature.
In a memorandum submitted to the CJI, the MVA underlined that the post of Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Maharashtra Assembly is a constitutional position, on par with that of the Chief Minister.
"Though we are aware that the judiciary does not interfere in legislative affairs, we are drawing your attention to this matter as you are the custodian of the Constitution and head one of the pillars of democracy,” the letter stated.
While the copy shared with the media did not carry signatures, MVA leaders claimed it was endorsed by nearly all senior alliance members.
Earlier this year, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray submitted a letter to Speaker Rahul Narwekar during the Budget Session, seeking LoP appointment. Congress and NCP leaders also backed the demand. In response, the legislature secretariat stated that the Speaker alone holds the power to appoint the LoP and that no formal rules govern the process.
The decision to raise the issue was finalised during a meeting of MVA leaders at Vidhan Bhavan on Tuesday morning. As CJI Gavai arrived at the Central Hall, alliance leaders lined up to greet him. Speaking to reporters, Shiv Sena leader Aaditya Thackeray said, “We told the CJI how the Opposition's voice is being stifled. Is this government afraid of us?” He also flagged the pending disqualification cases before the apex court.
