CM pacifies angry Sena MLAS, promises equal share of funds

Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis has assured Shiv Sena leaders that their constituencies will get an equal share of the funds set aside for development.

Shiv Sena legislators and ministers had alleged that constituencies led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) were not only given more funds by various departments, but a larger piece of the budget pie.

Fadnavis, on Friday, said any discrepancies would be addressed during the ongoing budget session.

The issue of unequal distribution of funds had cropped up during a meeting convened by Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray on Thursday night.

Thackeray reviewed the performance of ministers from his party and was apprised about alleged discrimination towards elected Shiv Sena representatives.

Thackeray spoke to Fadnavis about the alleged unequal distribution of funds to MLAS and the possibility of a farm loan waiver.

Following this, a delegation led by senior party leaders and ministers Eknath Shinde, Subhash Desai, Ramdas Kadam and Diwakar Raote met Fadnavis at his residence on Friday.

Ramdas Kadam said that Fadnavis assured them that legislators from all parties would receive equal funds.

“We brought the issue of unequal distribution of funds to the chief minister’s notice. We have faith in him and his assurances have satisfied us,” he said.

Shinde said that though Fadnavis remained firm on the government’s stance on farm loan waivers, the Shiv Sena will continue to press the issue.

The Shiv Sena’s review meeting was organised keeping in mind the BJP’S core committee meeting held to explore the potential scenarios for the midterm polls ,should the Shiv Sena pull out of the government.

According to sources, Thackeray directed party ministers and leaders to strengthen the party, keeping an eye on the next assembly elections.

The party is expected to demand significant portfolios for its ministers during the next reshuffle.