Shiv Sena (Thackeray faction) MLA Bhaskar Jadhav on Tuesday in the budget session, criticised the state government, alleging that the Governor’s recent address to the legislature contained “misleading claims” and lacked substantive direction.
Speaking after the address, Jadhav said the speech failed to inspire confidence and did not reflect the realities faced by citizens. “Such addresses are meant to outline key policy priorities and give direction. This one was bland and devoid of substance,” he said.
Questioning the government’s performance, Jadhav asked what had been achieved for unemployed youth, farmers, and women. Citing official data, he claimed that 2.5 million young people are currently registered as unemployed, alleging that the number has increased sevenfold over the past year. He accused the government of promoting investment announcements without ensuring implementation.
The MLA also raised concerns over the alleged relocation of major projects, including Tata, Vedanta, and the proposed Bulk Drug Park, outside Maharashtra. He alleged that political considerations had taken precedence over the state’s economic interests.
Referring to earlier commitments, Jadhav said the government had promised employment to one million youth under the ‘Ladka Bhau’ initiative in 2024. He also questioned the status of the 75,000-job recruitment drive announced in 2023, seeking clarity on how many positions had been filled.
Jadhav further demanded transparency in the implementation of welfare schemes, including solar pump distribution and the ₹1 crop insurance programme. He alleged that despite significant financial allocations, farmers had received limited benefits.
The legislator also brought up the proposed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj memorial in the Arabian Sea, asking what progress had been made despite repeated electoral assurances. He expressed concern over what he described as rising corruption and warned that Maharashtra’s reputation could suffer.
In addition, Jadhav voiced concern over reports of uncontested elections and allegations of money influencing votes. He urged the government to safeguard democratic processes and accused it of neglecting certain regions by withholding funds.
Concluding his speech, Jadhav alleged that the government had “misled the Governor” in drafting the address and expressed regret that the constitutional office had been drawn into political controversy.
