Deadlock may continue Monday

The first week of the Winter Session of the State Legislature was washed out in the ruckus created by Congress and NCP members who remained firm on their demand for a complete loan waiver for farmers. A meeting convened by the chairman of the House to resolve the deadlock remained inconclusive and chief minister Devendra Fadnavis also avoided attending it.

Opposition Congress and NCP in the Council House were aggressive as the Winter Session continued here. Both Opposition parties are in majority in the Upper House with 41 members of Congress and 40 members of NCP whereas ruling BJP and Shiv Sena are in minority.

Opposition leader Dhananjay Munde raised the issue of loan waiver and brought the attention of the House to the increase in the number of farmer suicides and the severe drought situation across “half of the state.”

Mr Munde and the Congress group leader Manikrao Thakre said they would not allow business to be transacted in the House till the government announces a package for the farmers.

Speaking to mediapersons, Mr Thakre and Mr Munde said they have no interest in the assurances given by the CM. “We know, he speaks very well but gives only false assurance and hence till he announces the (relief) package and loan waiver for the farmers, we will not allow conduct of business in the House,’ said Mr Thakre. He confirmed the deadlock would continue on Monday, if the state government does not clarify on their demands.