Leader of the Opposition in Maharashtra, Vijay Wadettiwar, launched a scathing attack on Union Home Minister Amit Shah and the BJP, predicting that Shah would not hold power in Delhi by 2029. Speaking on Wednesday, Wadettiwar accused the current government of corruption and claimed that the people of Maharashtra no longer want this administration. “Amit Shah will not be in Delhi in 2029. Currently, he is holding power with his own hands, but this government is full of scammers,” said Wadettiwar.
He went on to criticize the BJP’s internal dysfunction, suggesting that the government is “insolvent in the cabinet.” According to Wadettiwar, this internal collapse will soon prevent the ruling leaders from being able to move around freely in Maharashtra due to public discontent.
Wadettiwar also took a shot at the BJP’s political strategy, labeling it a “double-edged snake” that discards its allies after use. He emphasized that the upcoming Navratri festival would see new seat announcements, and that the opposition coalition, Mavia (Maha Vikas Aghadi), is ready for the electoral battle. “We have reached consensus in many places, and more meetings will follow. We will receive the blessings of the Goddess,” he added.
Addressing ongoing political disputes, Wadettiwar questioned Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s position on granting reservations to the Dhangar community, accusing the government of undermining OBC reservation rights. He also questioned the recent withdrawal of Maratha activist Manoj Jarange Patil’s protests, calling for transparency on the issue.
In an emotional appeal, Wadettiwar highlighted the plight of the poor, accusing the government of failing them repeatedly. He pointed to corruption scandals, asserting that the BJP has adopted a “loot and share” policy, where corruption has risen to 40% in the state.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari did not escape Wadettiwar’s sharp words, with Wadettiwar accusing him of occasionally “speaking the truth” about the BJP’s failings, particularly citing the quick collapse of the Ladli Behna scheme in Madhya Pradesh.
Wadettiwar further condemned BJP’s divisive politics, stating, “Faith is under attack. Saibaba is revered by millions, and saints should not be used for political gain.” He ended his fiery speech by denouncing the BJP’s alleged attempts to manipulate voters through narratives like “vote jihad” and “love jihad.”