Maharashtra opposition boycotts oath ceremony

The special session of the Maharashtra Assembly commenced on Saturday amidst political turbulence.

- Prajakta Pol

The newly formed Mahayuti government saw 173 ruling party MLAs take their oaths as members of the Assembly. While opposition MLAs initially remained in the House, they walked out when Congress leader Nana Patole's name was called, subsequently boycotting all proceedings.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MLA Bhaskar Jadhav defended the opposition's actions, stating, "We are not against the oath-taking ceremony. Our issue lies with the overwhelming majority this government has received—almost 90% support—a phenomenon unprecedented in the country. This is the magic of EVMs. We have chosen not to take the oath as a mark of protest against this government." Jadhav further emphasised the need for democratic dissent. "If democracy is to be preserved, it is essential to protest in a democratic manner. We are challenging the manner in which the current government came to power."