Union Minister and Republican Party of India (RPI) chief Ramdas Athawale expressed disappointment with the BJP-led Mahayuti in Maharashtra. He voiced concerns that his party workers in the state are not receiving the opportunities they deserve. Athawale also mentioned uncertainty about his party’s current status within the ruling alliance.
Athawale highlighted the disparity in treatment, citing examples from other states where coalition partners of the BJP are given seats and cabinet berths. Despite holding a Ministry in the Union Cabinet and a Rajya Sabha seat for the third time, he felt that RPI workers in Maharashtra were being overlooked.
Acknowledging the RPI’s alignment with the NDA at the Centre and the Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra due to the BJP’s support, Athawale emphasized the lack of clarity regarding the party’s position within the state alliance. He stressed the need for RPI representation in various committees and bodies to empower party workers across districts.
Expressing confidence in Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis’ commitment to allocate an MLC seat for the RPI, Athawale highlighted unmet promises from previous elections. He reiterated the demand for fair opportunities for RPI members in decision-making bodies at local levels.
