Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Tuesday met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi, where the two leaders discussed a range of issues concerning the state as well as the evolving situation in the Gulf region.
The meeting, held at Parliament House, lasted for over an hour, according to sources. Shiv Sena Members of Parliament, led by Parliamentary Party leader Shrikant Shinde, also interacted with the prime minister during the visit.
Focus on Maharashtra development and national concerns
During the meeting, Shinde is learnt to have briefed the prime minister on key infrastructure and development projects in Maharashtra, while also discussing broader national concerns amid tensions in the Gulf region.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Shinde said his party stands firmly with the Centre during what he described as a “critical time,” reiterating support for decisions taken in the interest of national security.
He also informed the prime minister about efforts to bring back citizens from Maharashtra who were stranded in Gulf cities such as Kuwait, Dubai and Muscat. According to Shinde, these individuals have now been safely returned to Mumbai and Pune.
Political sparring over opposition remarks
Shinde also targeted Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi, accusing him of making statements that could harm national interest during a sensitive geopolitical situation.
Without elaborating on specific remarks, Shinde alleged that certain comments were aimed at gaining international attention rather than reflecting national unity. He further criticised opposition parties, including the Congress and the Uddhav Thackeray faction, accusing them of spreading “baseless rumours” about a gas shortage in Maharashtra.
He maintained that there is no shortage of gas cylinders in the state and said the government is taking steps to prevent black-marketing.
Reference to Balasaheb Thackeray’s ideology
Invoking Shiv Sena founder Balasaheb Thackeray, Shinde said the party continues to prioritise the nation above politics, particularly in times of crisis.
“There are many issues for political debate, but at a time when the country must stand united, such politics is inappropriate,” he said.
Rajya Sabha election and party developments
Shinde also announced that Dr Jyoti Waghmare has been elected unopposed to the Rajya Sabha, describing her as an educated leader with a strong understanding of issues affecting underprivileged communities.
Meetings with Lok Sabha Speaker, Union ministers
Separately, Shinde met Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla at Parliament House. Union ministers Kiren Rijiju and Piyush Goyal were also present during the interaction.
Rijiju, who welcomed Shinde earlier, praised the performance of Shiv Sena MP Shrikant Shinde in the Lok Sabha, describing his contributions as “impactful.”
The visit comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions in the Gulf and ongoing political exchanges between the ruling alliance and opposition parties at the national level.