Mumbai: In a surprising shift from its usual critical stance, the Shiv Sena (UBT) has praised Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis for his efforts to eradicate Maoist influence in Gadchiroli district by accelerating development projects. The party’s mouthpiece, Saamana, published an editorial on Friday that applauded the CM’s dedication to transforming the Maoist-affected area following his visit and the announcement of a comprehensive development plan.
The editorial noted Fadnavis’ initiatives, stating, “While violence continues in places like Beed, where the brutal murder of sarpanch Santosh Deahmukh took place, Gadchiroli is experiencing the emergence of constitutional governance. For this, Chief Minister Fadnavis deserves recognition.”
It further commented, “If the Chief Minister can rebrand Gadchiroli as a ‘Steel City’ instead of a ‘Maoist district,’ his efforts should be acknowledged. His ambition to elevate Gadchiroli to a leading district in Maharashtra, rather than one of the last, is commendable. However, it is crucial that this transformation benefits the common people and poor tribals, rather than just the interests of mining tycoons. Only then will his claims of ushering in a new era for Gadchiroli be credible.”
Fadnavis kicked off the new year by visiting Gadchiroli, inaugurating and laying the groundwork for several development projects. Unlike other ministers focused on securing lucrative positions, the CM dedicated January 1 to launching initiatives in the Maoist-affected district, which Saamana described as “a new era of development.”
The editorial emphasized the importance of this move, stating, “If the Chief Minister’s promises come to fruition, it will be a milestone not just for Gadchiroli but for all of Maharashtra. Maoism, which has long plagued Indian society by recruiting youth into a parallel armed governance under the pretext of fighting exploitation, can be eliminated if the CM’s plans succeed.”
The editorial also criticized former Guardian Minister and current Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, alleging that his visits to Gadchiroli prioritized mining profits over the welfare of tribals.
Shiv Sena MP Sanjay Raut defended the party’s unexpected praise for Fadnavis in a media interaction, asserting that the government’s work in Gadchiroli deserves acknowledgment. “If Maoists choose to surrender and follow the constitutional path, we will welcome it,” Raut stated, while also accusing Shinde of promoting corruption and neglecting development during his term.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also commended Fadnavis for his initiatives in Gadchiroli, stating, “I applaud the Maharashtra government’s efforts to develop remote, Maoist-affected areas. This will enhance the quality of life and foster progress. Congratulations to my brothers and sisters in Gadchiroli.”
Shiv Sena UBT’s recognition of Fadnavis’ efforts signifies a notable change in tone, highlighting the importance of the developmental push in one of Maharashtra’s most challenging regions.