Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, took center stage at the ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0, organized by ABP Network, shedding light on crucial aspects of the state’s political landscape.
Addressing the session on ‘Collaborative Federalism: View of the States’ in Mumbai, Fadnavis emphasized the unique electoral dynamics in Maharashtra.
“We are in a strategic alliance with NCP and share an emotional bond with Eknath Shinde ji’s Shiv Sena,” Fadnavis remarked, providing insights into the intricacies of political collaborations.
Expressing confidence in the upcoming 2024 General Elections, he stated, “It’s not an election of negative mandate. BJP faces no anti-incumbency; we don’t need to target the opposition.”
On the formation of the Maharashtra government, Fadnavis explained, “Sharad Pawar ji nominated Ajit Pawar ji for alliance talks, and he couldn’t back out from the commitments made to BJP.” Addressing his role shift from Chief Minister to Deputy CM, he asserted, “The agenda I drove during my tenure continues.”
Reflecting on the relationship with Shiv Sena, Fadnavis acknowledged, “We treated them as brothers for 25 years. Uddhav Thackeray ji closed all doors.” Commenting on BJP’s strength, he highlighted, “The ground cadre is inspired and driven by thought, not just expectations.”
Looking ahead to state elections, Fadnavis affirmed, “The coalition with NCP and Shiv Sena will continue. Eknath Shinde ji is our leader, and we will contest the assembly election under his leadership.”
The ‘Ideas of India’ Summit 3.0 brought together a diverse range of thought leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss fundamental ideas of liberty, justice, equality, and diversity in the context of India’s trajectory. The two-day summit provided a platform for meaningful deliberations on the nation’s journey, celebrating its people and plurality.