Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut on Tuesday mounted a fierce attack on the Maharashtra government over the continued absence of a recognised Leader of the Opposition in both Houses of the state legislature, calling the situation an assault on constitutional and democratic norms.

Speaking at a press briefing, Raut questioned how legislative business could be conducted without a formal opposition head. “Whether it is the Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, Vidhan Sabha or Vidhan Parishad, functioning without a Leader of the Opposition is against democratic principles,” he said, pointing out that three sessions of the legislature have already concluded without the post being filled. “What exactly is happening in this country? Is this not a violation of the Constitution?” he asked.

The Rajya Sabha MP alleged that the ruling dispensation was intentionally delaying the appointment. Taking a swipe at the government’s claim of commanding a strong majority, Raut said there was no logical reason to avoid recognising an opposition leader. “If the government is so confident about its numbers, why is it afraid of a Leader of the Opposition?” he remarked, adding that the delay reflects insecurity rather than strength.

The issue has gained prominence during the ongoing Budget Session, as Maharashtra witnesses an unprecedented situation where both the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly and the Maharashtra Legislative Council are functioning without an officially recognised opposition leader. This marks the first such instance in the state’s political history.

The current Assembly was formed after the 2024 elections, and its first session was held in December the same year. Conventionally, the Leader of the Opposition is named during the inaugural sitting. However, the Speaker has so far withheld recognition, citing legislative rules that require the largest opposition party to have at least 10 per cent of the total House strength— a benchmark no opposition party has crossed.

A parallel vacuum exists in the Legislative Council as well. The tenure of Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Ambadas Danve ended in August last year, leaving the post vacant. Although the Congress later proposed Satej Patil’s name to Council Chairman Ram Shinde during the Winter Session in December 2025, the recommendation remains pending, further fuelling opposition allegations of deliberate inaction.