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Fadnavis’s 2029 Declaration Sparks Political Jousting in Maharashtra

Mumbai, October 24, 2025 – Maharashtra’s political landscape is buzzing with speculation after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis declared he intends to remain in office until 2029. The Congress party has interpreted this statement as a strategic maneuver aimed at both Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the BJP’s central leadership.

According to Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant, Fadnavis’s comment, ostensibly a response to questions about his national ambitions, is actually a veiled message intended to solidify his position within the state government. “He cannot speak to Shinde Saheb directly, so he’s communicating indirectly. It’s also a message to BJP leaders in Delhi who are watching developments closely,” Sawant stated on Thursday. He also suggested that efforts are underway to replace Mr. Fadnavis, citing frequent visits to Delhi by certain leaders.

Sawant also addressed the Samajwadi Party’s decision to contest the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections independently, stating that Congress’s strategy would be decided by the high command in consultation with local leaders and that the party is aiming for the Mayor’s post in Mumbai.

Beyond the intra-party dynamics, Sawant sharply criticized both the central and state governments for failing to meet the minimum support price (MSP) promises for soybeans. He highlighted that Fadnavis himself had advocated for an MSP of ₹6,000 per quintal back in 2013. “The Centre has announced an MSP of ₹5,328 per quintal this year, far below the promised figure,” Sawant pointed out, noting that farmers are reportedly selling soybeans at significantly lower prices in the open market, incurring substantial losses. He also criticized administrative changes in procurement, claiming that involving multiple agencies has created confusion.

Sawant further alleged a deliberate delay in the commencement of MSP procurement centers. He added that excessive rainfall has damaged mung and urad crops, and soybean production has dropped sharply. “Despite promises of Diwali relief, farmers spent the festival in darkness. Procurement should have started a month ago. BJP is always prioritising elections over farmers welfare. They don’t even see farmers as people anymore,” he said.

The political wrangling comes amidst concerns about the agricultural sector and the financial well-being of farmers in the state, adding another layer of complexity to Maharashtra’s political narrative.

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