The ongoing monsoon session of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly has been witnessing high drama, with the opposition relentlessly targeting the government on multiple issues — and Monday was no different. From protests to slogan-shouting, the atmosphere remained charged throughout the day.
One particular moment, however, stood out for its unusual mix of tension and humor. Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) MLA Bharat Gogawale was welcomed into the assembly with loud chants of “Om Bhat Swaha” by opposition MLAs, leading to a brief flash of irritation on his face. But what started with visible anger quickly turned into laughter, creating a lighter moment in an otherwise intense session.
The opposition has been aggressively holding the government accountable on various state issues, with the Marathi language controversy becoming a focal point. Earlier in the day, several activists and protesters were detained in Mira-Bhayandar for marching without police permission on the same issue. The ripple effects of that incident were felt in the legislature, where opposition leaders sat on the steps of the house, raising slogans against the government.
As ruling party MLAs made their way into the House, the opposition took the opportunity to mock and criticize them with satirical slogans tied to their respective controversies.
When Bharat Gogawale entered the assembly premises, he was greeted by the slogan “Om Bhat Swaha” — a phrase that has gone viral in recent political banter. Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray joined in the mockery by draping a towel over his shoulder, imitating Gogawale.
At first, Gogawale appeared visibly annoyed. However, in a display of political composure, he eventually smiled, folded his hands in greeting, and walked into the House with a grin — drawing laughter from both sides.
Opposition members didn’t stop with Gogawale. They launched a coordinated mocking campaign against several leaders of the ruling coalition:
Minister Nitesh Rane was targeted with chants like “What to do with chicken thieves — head down, feet up!”
Minister Sanjay Shirsath faced slogans such as “50 boxes, absolutely OK” and “Corrupt government!”
Former Education Minister Deepak Kesarkar was mocked with the slogan “Where did the school uniforms go? To Gujarat!”
Deputy Speaker Neelam Gorhe was met with chants of “Mercedes, absolutely OK!” upon her entry.
The opposition is also protesting the government’s continued failure to appoint a Leader of the Opposition in the Assembly. The absence of this key post has intensified friction between the ruling alliance and opposition parties.
Despite the serious tone of the ongoing monsoon session, moments like Gogawale’s unusual welcome provided a glimpse into the dramatic — and sometimes humorous — dynamics of Maharashtra’s political theatre.