Discontent is once again surfacing in Maharashtra politics. During the annual state-organised event commemorating Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar’s birth anniversary, several dignitaries, including Governor CP Radhakrishnan, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar and other ministers, were present at Chaityabhoomi. However, the event took a dramatic turn.
After paying tribute to Dr Ambedkar, the governor, the chief minister, and both deputy chief ministers ascended the stage. However, only the governor and the chief minister delivered speeches. Notably, the official programme schedule had included speeches by both Eknath Shinde and Pawar. Their speaking slots were scheduled for 10.10am and 10.15am, respectively, with five minutes allotted to each.
Despite this, both Deputy CMs were excluded from speaking. Surprised by the omission, Shinde questioned the officials, only to be told that his name was not on the list. Shinde, however, pointed to an earlier version of the schedule that had included his name. Officials then revealed that the programme had been revised the previous night. Interestingly, one official even counter-questioned Shinde, asking whether he had not been informed that he wouldn’t be speaking.
Following the incident, sources say Shinde has ordered an inquiry into the official responsible for altering the schedule. Meanwhile, both Deputy CMs were reportedly upset. Pawar left the venue immediately after the event, while Shinde addressed the media to offer a clarification on the issue.
When asked about his reported displeasure, Shinde refrained from commenting directly. Instead, he emphasised that nothing was more important than visiting Chaityabhoomi, paying respects to Dr Ambedkar, and seeking his blessings.
