NEW DELHI: Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde recently attributed the setbacks faced by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the 2024 Lok Sabha polls to the “400 paar” slogan. In a video interview given to the media, Shinde mentioned several key points, highlighting internal and external dynamics affecting the NDA.
Previously, Shiv Sena MP Shrirang Barne’s comments sparked discussions about the dynamics within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Barne argued that the long-time ally of the BJP should have been given a cabinet berth.
In response to Barne’s statement, Shinde reiterated the party’s unwavering support for the NDA government, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “We have already made it clear that we are supporting the government unconditionally. This nation has asked and needs the leadership of Prime Minister Modi ji. There’s no bargaining or negotiation for power,” Shrikant Shinde stated.
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Meanwhile, Maharashtra Congress president Nana Patole criticized the Mahayuti, the coalition led by Shiv Sena and BJP. Patole took aim at Shrikant Shinde’s statement, suggesting that the electorate has already delivered a verdict on the alliance’s performance. “The people have taught the Mahayuti a lesson for all their faults and sins,” Patole remarked, highlighting public dissatisfaction with the coalition’s governance.
In the further statements Shinde reflected his support to the NDA government and said that the BJP-led government has approved 122 major schemes in two years, focusing on development and welfare. This includes paying premiums for crop insurance, ensuring farmers pay only one rupee, and addressing the needs of Maharashtra’s agricultural sector. Significant infrastructure projects, such as the Nagpur-Mumbai Samruddhi Expressway and the Atal Setu sea bridge, have been key achievements.
He also mentioned that the government’s commitment to development is evident in its handling of unseasonal rains and droughts, with revised NDRF rules providing better compensation for affected farmers. The irrigation department’s approval of 122 major schemes in two years promises to bring millions of hectares of land under irrigation, demonstrating a focused approach to supporting Maharashtra’s farmers.
While internal political dynamics and external criticisms present challenges, the NDA’s developmental initiatives and focus on supporting farmers highlight its ongoing commitment to progress in Maharashtra.