Devendra Fadnavis govt keeps options open for stability

The BJP with 122 MLAs has the support of eight independents, taking its tally to 130. It is short of 15 MLAs. Highly placed party sources said at least 20-25 MLAs from two mainstream parties are in touch with BJP leaders at the Centre and state. Some are willing to quit their party and face fresh elections to boost BJP’s tally from 130 to 145.

Highly placed sources in the Sena told The Indian Express, “In a coalition, we are bound to have conflicts which
will continue till the 2017 BMC polls. But that does not mean we are going to destablise the Fadnavis government.”

Citing an example, a senior Sena functionary said, “In the last 15 years, there were far more serious differences between the Congress and NCP. Yet they ran a government for full 15 years.”

Top Sena leaders admitted that if they were to withdraw, it may split the party. Those in favour of staying on in the alliance argued that the party should push its agenda and get work done by being in the government. “Walking out would not serve them much as nobody wants elections in such a short span, which could give a lease of life to BJP to hold the reins.”

It also helps the BJP to have a secure ally in the Sena with 63 MLAs. Out of 288 seats in the Maharashtra assembly, BJP (122), Sena (63) and 8 independents make for 203. The Congress with 42 and NCP with 41 have 83 MLAs. There are two MLAs not committed to any groups.

In a step to keep the Sena in good humour, the BJP is supporting their demand for the annual  Dussehra rally at Shivaji Park. All Sena ministers (except Eknath Shinde) attended work at the Mantralaya on Wednesday.