Democracy Under Scrutiny: Dainik Saamana Condemns Maharashtra Speaker’s Controversial Verdict
Mumbai, 11th January 2024: In a scathing critique, the Dainik Saamana’s editorial, featured in the Shiv Sena mouthpiece, strongly condemns Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar’s recent verdict, casting a dark shadow over the democratic process. The editorial accuses the Speaker of premeditated decision-making and suggests external influence from higher authorities in Delhi.
The editorial alleges that the extensive ruling, recognizing Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s faction as the authentic Shiv Sena, was scripted by higher authorities in Delhi, insinuating interference in Maharashtra’s internal affairs. This assertion raises concerns about the impartiality and independence of the Speaker’s decision-making process.
Responding to Narwekar’s announcement, the editorial contends that the Speaker’s order was predetermined, with his bosses in Delhi playing a decisive role. This perceived interference, according to the Marathi Daily, has significant implications for the democratic principles, questioning the fairness and integrity of the Speaker’s decisions.
Against the backdrop of the Shiv Sena’s vertical split in May 2022, where Narwekar sided with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s faction, the editorial highlights the Speaker’s dismissal of disqualification petitions against Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from both factions. The Saamana editorial sharply criticizes this ruling, stating that it has “blackened” the face of democracy and raises doubts about the sanctity of the democratic process.
