Opposition hits out as CM Shinde’s aide Ashar is appointed as VP of Maharashtra planning body
Chief Minister Eknath Shinde’s decision to appoint his ‘aide’ Ajay Ashar as a vice president of the Maharashtra Planning Commission has ignited a fresh controversy in the state. Leaders from the opposition parties have criticised the decision which now gives the Thane-based builder cabinet status as the vice chairman of MITRA- Maharashtra Institution for Transformation.
Maharashtra Congress chief Nana Patole has demanded the resignation of the CM over the issue. He also questioned ‘how a robber like Ashar is being given access’ to state treasury.
“The BJP had raised question marks on Ajay Ashar when MVA was in power. Why is the BJP silent now? Does the deputy chief minister also agree to the appointment of Ashar? Does the BJP also benefit from this appointment? We will raise this matter in the upcoming Winter Session of Maharashtra Assembly,” Patole said.
Congress spokesperson Sachin Sawant tweeted an old video where BJP leader Ashish Shelar can be seen criticising Ashar in the Legislative Assembly. “We are told that one Ajay Ashar is taking decision for the Urban Development Department. Is he above the officials too,” the MLA had said during the MVA regime.
Sawant took a dig at Shelar, stating that Ashar would not only be leading the Urban Development ministry but would also take decisions for the whole state’s planning now. “Hope you have got your answers now at least,” he sarcastically asked Shelar.
The leaders from Uddhav Thackeray’s Shiv Sena have refrained from making any comments on this issue. “The CM (Shinde) seems to be obliging his builder commission,” said NCP spokesperson Mahesh Tapase.
