Maharashtra Deputy CM Critiques Opposition's Instability in Assembly

Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has criticized the opposition's instability in the assembly, particularly following the defection of Shiv Sena (UBT) MPs. He claimed that the opposition members have lost their mental balance and warned of further shocks to come. Shinde emphasized the government's collective responsibility to address questions in the assembly and criticized the opposition for obstructing proceedings. His remarks come amid tensions during the monsoon session, where the opposition raised concerns over ministerial responsibilities. This situation highlights the ongoing struggles within the Shiv Sena and the political dynamics in Maharashtra.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 23, 2026, 17:35 IST

Shiv Sena's Internal Struggles Highlighted

On Tuesday, Maharashtra's Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde mocked the disarray within the Shiv Sena (UBT) following the defection of its Lok Sabha MPs. He remarked that opposition members seemed to have lost their 'mental balance' due to a 'strong shock' and warned that they would face even more shocks ahead.

The assembly witnessed a walkout by legislators from the Aditya Thackeray-led Shiv Sena (UBT) and other opposition parties, who protested against ministers responding to questions related to different departments. This prompted Shinde's sharp remarks.

During the monsoon session, the opposition raised concerns regarding the assembly speaker Rahul Narvekar assigning responsibilities of certain departments to specific ministers. Jayant Patil from the Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar faction) urged the speaker to retract his decision, while Aditya Thackeray insisted that only the state ministers of the relevant departments should address the issues raised in the house. Congress member Nitin Raut also expressed that such arrangements had never been seen before.

Shinde intervened, asserting that the opposition had run out of issues and was obstructing the proceedings instead of participating constructively.

The Deputy Chief Minister and Shiv Sena president stated, 'Assigning ministers to answer questions and address 'attention proposals' ensures that members receive more information. It is the collective responsibility of the government to be present in the house and respond to members' queries.' He added, 'I personally attend the house, and the Chief Minister also comes to provide answers. Thus, it is our shared responsibility.'

Shinde further criticized the protesting members, saying, 'Any responsibility assigned must be fulfilled. You cannot just keep talking nonsense and waste the house's time.' Pointing to the empty chairs in the opposition's section, he remarked that they seemed unaware of their current situation. He alluded to the six rebel MPs from Shiv Sena (UBT) who are expected to switch allegiance back to Shiv Sena, stating, 'Yesterday, they received a strong shock. Their mental balance has been disturbed, and they will face even more shocks in the future.'