New Delhi, Feb 23 : Shiv Sena (UBT) on Monday launched a sharp attack on the ruling Mahayuti alliance, likening its leadership style to the arrogance of Duryodhana from the Mahabharata and accusing it of undermining democratic institutions.
In an editorial titled “Duryodhana’s Ego: No Need for a Leader of the Opposition!” published in party mouthpiece Saamana, the Uddhav Thackeray led faction alleged that the state government views the post of Leader of Opposition (LoP) as dispensable rather than constitutionally vital.
Budget Session Without LoP
The criticism comes as Maharashtra’s Budget Session commenced without a formally designated LoP in either the Legislative Assembly or the Legislative Council. The editorial argued that denying space to the opposition mirrors Duryodhana’s refusal to concede even minimal ground to the Pandavas, calling it a “pinnacle of ego.”
The piece questioned whether the legislature was being reduced to a “private firm for the rulers” and maintained that the LoP represents the people’s voice in holding the executive accountable.
Allegations of Democratic Erosion
The editorial also referred to recent parliamentary tensions at the national level and claimed attempts were being made to weaken opposition unity, particularly within the INDIA bloc. It accused the ruling establishment of evading scrutiny by marginalising dissenting voices.
Citing recent political developments and administrative decisions, the party alleged that issues related to infrastructure projects and governance would remain unchecked without a strong opposition presence. It further criticised delays in local body elections and the appointment of administrators in municipal corporations, describing the trend as a slide toward authoritarianism.
Boycott of CM’s Invitation
The editorial backed the decision of the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) to boycott a customary tea meeting hosted by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, saying it was preferable to protest alleged irregularities rather than participate in symbolic gestures.
Concluding on a cautionary note, the party warned that political arrogance ultimately leads to downfall, invoking the fate of Duryodhana as a historical lesson against sidelining democratic principles.