Shiv Sena takes jibe at Fadnavis for 'deferring' Maharashtra cabinet expansion

Apparently miffed with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis over "deferring" the much-awaited Cabinet expansion after the state Legislature session that began today, the Shiv Sena said the government is left in a lurch on what to do about those "expecting ministerial berths".

"The present CM has deferred the 'carrot' of Cabinet expansion till the winter session of state Legislature ends. But what is plaguing the government is what has to be done about those who are in love with carrots (expecting a ministerial berth)," an editorial in Sena mouthpiece 'Saamana' said.

Taking a dig at Fadnavis, the Sena said he is a "capable" Chief Minister who has got a solution to all the problems of the state.

"The CM may have worked hard throughout the year, but if it is not showing results, the Opposition will be ready to raise questions on the working of the government," it said.

"Chief Ministers come and go. Yesterday the CM was from the Congress, today from the BJP and tomorrow may be from some other party," ruling alliance partner said. It also said that apart from agriculture crisis, various other issues plaguing the state, including law and order, need immediate attention.

"Agricultural crisis persists in the state. Farmers have to deal with crop losses due to unseasonal rains and hailstorms. Apart from the farmers' problems, there are various other issues on which the government needs to take firm steps," the Sena said. It also criticised the government over "failing" to check the price rise of pulses.

"The BJP had promised that Arhar dal will be sold to people at Rs 100 per kg, but the prices are still sky high. Also, issues like educational reservation and law and order situation in some parts of the state need immediate government attention," the Sena said.

"Also, Mumbai police has received reports that some extremist Muslims are in contact with ISIS. Thus, a (terror)
sword is now dangling over Mumbai," it added.