Senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader and Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Raut on Tuesday launched a sharp attack on Union Home Minister Amit Shah, alleging that the proposed delimitation exercise was “disguised” as the Women’s Reservation Bill passed in 2023.
Addressing media persons in Mumbai, Sanjay Raut claimed that what was presented in Parliament as a women’s reservation measure was, in reality, aimed at facilitating future delimitation to politically benefit the BJP.
He further alleged that there were internal divisions within the BJP over the future leadership after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, suggesting that certain groups within the party were planning to retain power beyond Modi’s tenure. Raut said he was unsure whether Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was part of such a group.
Clarifying his party’s stance, Raut said Shiv Sena (UBT) does not oppose women’s reservation and added that it could be implemented immediately within the existing strength of Parliament. “If necessary, we are ready even if it affects our own seats,” he said.
He also criticised Devendra Fadnavis, urging him to study the provisions of the Bill carefully before making public statements.
Commenting on law and order, Raut alleged a rise in narcotics consumption in Maharashtra, linking it to recent incidents in Mumbai and claiming that the state was being turned into a hub for drug activity.
Raut further targeted the Election Commission of India, alleging bias in favour of the ruling party and expressing concern over the proposed appointment of a delimitation commissioner.
On the upcoming Legislative Council elections, he said there was a possibility of the polls being held unopposed, depending on the stance of opposition parties. He added that there was a strong sentiment within the party for Shiv Sena chief Uddhav Thackeray to return to the Legislative Council.
Raut also recalled that in 2020, elections for similar seats were held unopposed to facilitate Uddhav Thackeray’s entry into the legislature, and suggested a similar consensus could be reached again if opposition parties agree.