A wave of discontent appears to be brewing within the Mahayuti alliance after Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis issued a strict directive to the personal assistants (PAs) and officers on special duty (OSDs) of state ministers, ordering them to work strictly within their respective departments.
According to sources, the Chief Minister’s Principal Secretary issued a formal communication directing the secretaries of ministers to report to their respective core departments. While similar instructions were previously conveyed informally, it has been observed that many ministers and their aides have been ignoring these guidelines. The issuance of a formal written order has now triggered dissatisfaction among several leaders within the ruling alliance.
Adding to the friction, Fadnavis has also reportedly denied permission to seven ministers for appointing their chosen OSDs and PAs. The decision comes with a warning of strict action for non-compliance, which has left many ministers startled. In response, several leaders, including Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, have sought meetings with Fadnavis to express their concerns.
Ministers typically prefer appointing trusted and loyal individuals as PAs and OSDs. However, concerns have been raised about the long tenures of some of these aides in specific departments, which could lead to the risk of favoritism or corruption. It is believed that the Chief Minister's decision stems from a desire to ensure greater accountability and transparency in the administration.
As tension simmers, all eyes are now on the upcoming cabinet meeting, where this issue is expected to be a key topic of discussion. The internal unrest has sparked speculation about growing friction within the Mahayuti alliance, despite public displays of unity.