The Bombay High Court has stepped into a political tussle in Ambernath, Thane district, putting key decisions on hold. On Monday, the court suspended orders from the Thane district collector regarding alliance recognitions. It directed the collector to issue a fresh, reasoned decision after hearing all parties involved.
Court Criticizes 'Globetrotting' Councillors
During the hearing, Justice Ravindra V Ghuge made sharp remarks about four councillors from Ajit Pawar's NCP. These members have switched allegiances multiple times in the Ambernath municipal council. Justice Ghuge called them "globetrotters" for their inconsistent political stance. He noted they first supported one alliance, then another, and might shift again after court orders.
Background of the Ambernath Controversy
Ambernath gained national attention recently due to an unusual political move. The BJP formed an alliance with its traditional rival, the Congress. This partnership aimed to sideline the Shinde Sena, the BJP's ruling partner in Maharashtra, from power in the municipal council.
In the council elections, no party secured a majority. The Shinde Sena emerged as the single-largest party with 27 out of 60 seats. The BJP won 14 seats, Congress 12, Ajit Pawar's NCP 4, and Independents 2.
Formation and Suspension of AVA
Initially, the Ambernath Vikas Aghadi (AVA) was formed. It included 14 BJP members, 12 Congress members, 4 NCP (Ajit Pawar faction) members, and 1 Independent. The Thane collector recognized AVA as a pre-poll alliance on January 7.
However, this alliance sparked controversy. The Congress suspended all 12 of its elected members who joined AVA. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also directed the BJP to break ties with Congress, terming the alliance "unacceptable." Later, the 12 Congress members formally joined the BJP.
Shift in Alliances and Legal Challenge
On January 9, the four NCP councillors decided to support the Shinde Sena instead. In response, the Thane collector recognized the Shinde Sena-NCP alliance as a pre-poll alliance. He also de-recognized AVA. This prompted AVA to approach the Bombay High Court.
AVA, represented by Senior Advocate Girish Godbole, argued the collector's decision was illegal. They claimed AVA should be considered a pre-poll alliance for all purposes, including forming subject committees in the council.
Court's Interim Measures and Final Order
On January 17, a bench led by Justice Ghuge temporarily postponed a meeting to form subject committees. These committees cover areas like public health, public works, and education. The postponement lasted until January 19 evening.
In Monday's hearing, the court decided to keep the collector's January 7 and January 9 communications in abeyance. The Municipal Council stated it had no role in the political dispute. Without delving into the merits, the High Court sent the matter back to the Thane collector.
The court ordered all parties to appear before the collector on January 28 for a hearing. The collector must pass a reasoned order within 21 days after the hearing closes. He must then pronounce the order within another 21 days.
Impact on Council Operations
The bench noted that subject committees will not be formed for 15 days after the collector's decision. This delay allows the aggrieved party time to challenge any adverse order. The collector's order will not take effect for 15 days from the date it is served to the parties.
The court disposed of AVA's plea with these directions, emphasizing a fair process. The political drama in Ambernath continues, with the High Court ensuring a judicial review of the collector's actions.
