Irresponsible Behaviour is an Insult to the Mandate

 

As Maharashtra scripts a new chapter in its growth saga, global institutions are taking notice. As I write this, the renowned international institution Morgan Stanley has projected that Maharashtra’s economy will reach $1 trillion USD by 2030. The report highlights the state’s accelerated strides in infrastructure, connectivity & investment—putting Maharashtra firmly on the global growth radar.

Just last month, it was reported that Maharashtra received the highest foreign direct investment (FDI) in the country. On one hand, Maharashtra is rapidly progressing on the path of development, but on the other, some individuals within the ruling party are putting the government in a difficult position through their irresponsible behaviour.

Instead of celebrating Maharashtra’s economic growth, the media and social platforms are focusing on incidents like brawls among MLAs’ supporters, assaults by public representatives on hotel staff, or a minister playing rummy. The public that rejected the false propaganda of the Maha Vikas Aghadi and gave a resounding majority to the current government is now watching as that very public mandate is being disrespected—and the elected representatives seem oblivious to it.

Rather than discussing the Morgan Stanley report and highlighting Maharashtra’s progress in infrastructure, the media seems uninterested in such positive discussions. There seems to be a belief among some media houses that the Indian public prefers to talk about negative rather than constructive events. However, the media must exercise restraint in how long they dwell on such issues.

Of course, we cannot point fingers at the media alone. It is equally unfortunate when elected representatives from the ruling party forget their responsibilities. They are unknowingly creating obstacles for their own government and leadership. It’s disappointing that they don’t seem to recognise the harm they’re causing.

While positive developments are ignored, one wonders why these representatives are choosing a negative path. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and both Deputy CMs, Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, are working tirelessly for Maharashtra’s progress. Due to their vision, speed, and dedication, the state’s economy is confidently heading toward the one-trillion-dollar goal. The Morgan Stanley report reflects this.

Maharashtra has prioritised the development of roads, metros, airports, and ports. Projects like the Samruddhi Mahamarg and Mumbai’s metro have improved connectivity, benefiting trade and industry. These infrastructure developments are positioning Maharashtra as a future global hub.

Except for the two and a half years from November 2019 to July 2022, Maharashtra has witnessed rapid development in the last 11 years. During those two and a half years, governance was run through Facebook Live from home, as we all saw.

It was during CM Fadnavis’s first term (2014–2019), he initiated metro projects in Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur. He brought projects like Atal Setu and Coastal Road to address Mumbai’s traffic congestion. Initiatives like free solar electricity for farmers and online delivery of government services showcased efficient governance.

In just nine months, Maharashtra attracted record-breaking foreign investment—₹1,39,434 crore in the first three quarters of FY 2024-25, according to central government data.

The Mahayuti government has reformed laws and focused on ease of doing business, making it easier for new businesses to obtain government permissions. At the Davos Investment Summit, Maharashtra signed MoUs worth ₹15 lakh crore. The state now ranks first in the country for startups and investment. Major projects like Vadhavan Port are progressing under the Fadnavis government.

Unfortunately, instead of discussing these achievements, some malicious elements are deliberately trying to tarnish CM Fadnavis’s image by focusing on irrelevant issues like MLA fights or ministerial misbehavior. Sadly, some members within the ruling party are unintentionally supporting these efforts.

CM Fadnavis has openly expressed his dissatisfaction with the behaviour of some public representatives. It is imperative that all elected members of the ruling party refrain from actions that could sabotage their own government. They must introspect—are they becoming pawns in the hands of the opposition?

Let’s hope they don’t break the very trust with which the people handed them power. That is all we ask for—for now.

 

(Article Pre-Published in Times of India Online – 28 July, 2025) 

Keshav Upadhye, Chief Spokesperson