Tue Feb 18 11:18:28 UTC 2025: ## Cracks Appear in Maharashtra’s Ruling Alliance Amidst Security Row

**Mumbai, India** – Less than three months after securing a landslide victory in the Maharashtra elections, the BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP alliance is facing growing internal tensions, with the recent withdrawal of security detail for several MLAs sparking controversy.

The move, which saw the downgrading or removal of “Y” security cover for legislators across all three parties, has disproportionately affected the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena faction. Approximately 20 Shiv Sena MLAs – significantly more than from the BJP or NCP – have reportedly lost their security detail.

While Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis insists the decisions were made by a security review committee without political interference, the timing raises eyebrows. The Shinde faction, which joined forces with the BJP last year, is reportedly unhappy over the development. This comes amidst other unresolved issues within the alliance.

These include the ongoing dispute over the appointment of guardian ministers for Raigad and Nashik districts, where the government’s decision not to appoint candidates favored by the Shiv Sena and NCP has caused friction. Shinde’s reported unhappiness over being previously excluded from the State Disaster Management Authority, which was later amended to include the Deputy Chief Minister’s position, further fuels speculation of internal conflict.

Adding to the tension, Shinde’s recent decision to hold a separate review meeting for the 2027 Kumbh Mela in Nashik, after skipping one chaired by Fadnavis, points to growing division. Shiv Sena (Uddhav Balasaheb Thackeray) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi sarcastically commented on the alliance’s supposed harmony on social media.

However, Maharashtra IT Minister Ashish Shelar dismissed these concerns, claiming there are no differences within the Mahayuti (Grand Alliance) and asserting that the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Ministers are working together harmoniously. The situation highlights a potential crisis within the ruling coalition, casting doubt on the stability of the Maharashtra government.

Read More