Senior Congress leader Nana Patole ignited a fresh political firestorm on Monday by alleging that a powerful faction within the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is actively campaigning to unseat Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. The explosive claim comes as the state heads into a crucial phase of intense municipal elections, sharpening the political discourse.
Internal Churn No Secret, Says Congress Leader
Addressing the media in Nagpur, the former Maharashtra Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president asserted that the internal discord within the BJP is an open secret, known even to the Chief Minister himself. "Where and how campaigns are being run against the CM within the BJP, and which group is active to remove him, is even known to Fadnavis," Patole stated categorically.
The Sakoli MLA connected the alleged power struggle to developments following the formation of the Mahayuti coalition government. He specifically pointed to senior BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar, suggesting his initial exclusion from the cabinet had caused discontent. "Whatever is going on with Mungantiwar, Fadnavis has complete knowledge of it," Patole claimed, adding fuel to the speculation.
Warning of an Impending "Explosion"
Patole predicted that the situation would escalate significantly in the near future. He forecasted a major upheaval within the state's dominant political party. "In the days ahead, a major explosion of power struggle will be seen within the BJP," he warned. These remarks, made at the peak of campaigning for civic body polls, immediately triggered sharp reactions across political circles, diverting attention to the BJP's internal dynamics.
When questioned about Union Minister Narayan Rane's recent hints at retiring from politics, Patole seized the opportunity to take a swipe at the BJP's leadership. He suggested that other senior BJP figures should "take inspiration" from Rane's statement—a comment widely interpreted as a political jibe rather than a genuine endorsement.
Cautious Remarks on Nomination Controversy
The Congress leader was also pressed on allegations that pressure was exerted on candidates to withdraw their nomination papers, with the controversy allegedly involving Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar. Patole responded with measured caution, emphasizing the constitutional sanctity of the Speaker's office. "The Speaker's position is a constitutional one, and justice is expected from it," he remarked.
He added that such high offices must be occupied by "the right person" but declined to elaborate further, leaving the pointed statement hanging. Patole's multi-pronged attack has successfully shifted some focus onto the ruling alliance's internal cohesion during a critical election period, setting the stage for a highly charged political battle in Maharashtra.
