7 Opposition MPs in Touch with BJP, Claims Maharashtra Minister Girish Mahajan; Sparks Political Storm
Mumbai, July 21: Maharashtra Water Resources Minister and senior BJP leader Girish Mahajan has stirred the political pot with a sensational claim that seven opposition MPs are currently in touch with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Speaking on Sunday, Mahajan hinted that these MPs may soon switch sides, which could significantly boost BJP’s strength in Parliament. He also took a direct jibe at Shiv Sena (UBT) chief Uddhav Thackeray, asserting that the “Thackeray brand” has lost its relevance in Maharashtra politics.
🔥 BJP May Gain Strength in Parliament
According to a PTI report, Mahajan claimed that initially seven opposition MPs had reached out to the BJP, and now three more MPs have joined the communication. He suggested that if this shift materializes, it could deal a serious blow to opposition parties in the Lok Sabha.
Currently, BJP holds 240 seats in Parliament. Shiv Sena’s Eknath Shinde faction has 7 MPs, while the Uddhav Thackeray-led group has 9 MPs. Congress, on the other hand, has 99 MPs. If 7 additional opposition MPs were to join the BJP, the party’s strength could rise to 247, enhancing its legislative influence. However, no official confirmation has been provided regarding this claim, and ABP News has not verified the information.
💬 Mahajan on Language Debate: “We Are One Nation”
Commenting on the ongoing language debate, Mahajan said,
“We are one nation. India is home to many languages and religions. We must respect all. Today, Hindi is the most effective language for communication, and we must accept that. But in Maharashtra, our language is Marathi, and we are proud of it. Still, when stepping out, one must be ready to speak in Hindi.”
His balanced statement was aimed at diffusing the ongoing tension around linguistic preferences, especially in regional versus national contexts.
🤝 Buzz Around Secret Meeting Between Thackeray and Fadnavis
Adding further intrigue to the state’s political landscape, there are widespread rumors about a private meeting between Uddhav Thackeray and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. Reports suggest the two leaders met at a hotel in Mumbai, behind closed doors. Allegedly, Uddhav’s son, Aaditya Thackeray, also met Fadnavis shortly afterward for an hour-long conversation.
Both parties, however, have denied any such meetings. According to the Chief Minister’s Office, Fadnavis was indeed present at the hotel, but no political meeting took place.
Political analysts are closely watching the developments, as such cross-party interactions and MP shifts could potentially reshape the state’s and even the nation’s political dynamics ahead of upcoming elections.