Fri Nov 08 07:34:28 UTC 2024: ## Shiv Sena MP Deora Calls for Second IFSC in Mumbai, Criticizes Gujarat Favouritism

**Mumbai, November 8, 2024:** Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha MP Milind Deora has called for a second International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) to be established in Mumbai, arguing that the city is a natural choice given its existing financial expertise and international standing.

Speaking at The Hindu’s Poll Arena in Mumbai, Deora stated that India has the potential for another IFSC, emphasizing that Mumbai’s competition is now global, with cities like Dubai and Singapore vying for financial dominance. He criticized the establishment of the IFSC in Gujarat instead of Mumbai, blaming it on the state’s lack of infrastructure and human resources concentrated in financial services.

Deora further alleged that Maharashtra had lost out on significant investments due to “speed-breaker” politics by the Congress party, which he claimed had opposed crucial infrastructure projects like the Mumbai metro rail and the Wadhwana port. He also cited the Jethapur nuclear plant as an example of the Congress’s opposition to development in Mumbai.

His statements come after the MVA coalition raised concerns about projects meant for Maharashtra being implemented in Gujarat due to alleged favoritism from the Centre. Recent criticism arose when Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated a defense aircraft facility in Vadodara, a project that Congress leader Jairam Ramesh claimed was originally intended for Maharashtra.

Deora, who recently joined the Shiv Sena after a long tenure in the Congress, expressed his rationale for the switch, stating that the Congress had deviated from its core values during his father’s time in the party. He asserted that his decision was driven by a desire for a party that aligns with his beliefs and expressed no regrets about the move.

Deora, a former Minister of State for Shipping, is contesting the upcoming Assembly election from the Worli constituency for the Shiv Sena. He highlighted the importance of local issues, arguing that they ultimately reflect the national political landscape.

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