MUMBAI: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis refuted claims of a rift within the Mahayuti alliance on Friday, asserting, "I am not Uddhav Thackeray, who would obstruct ongoing projects." He blamed the media and the Opposition for exaggerating minor coordination issues, insisting that the ruling alliance, which secured a strong mandate, is functioning smoothly and responsibly.  

Fadnavis stressed that all decisions are made collectively, citing his previous collaboration with Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde when Shinde was the Chief Minister. He also criticized the declining quality of news and dismissed allegations that he deliberately stalled projects related to alliance leaders’ departments. He clarified that if a divisional commissioner halts a project due to non-compliance with central government guidelines, it is often misrepresented as political interference.  

While addressing the Legislative Assembly during the motion of thanks to Governor P.C. Radhakrishnan, Fadnavis denied reports of discord within Mahayuti and highlighted the government's bold reforms in key sectors such as power, irrigation, and infrastructure. He reiterated the government’s pledge to provide free electricity to 45 lakh farmers at an estimated cost of Rs 14,000 crore. Additionally, he announced plans for a state-level initiative akin to the Centre’s PM Surya Ghar Yojana, which aims to exempt 1.5 crore people from electricity bills.  

Discussing the Mukhya Mantri Krishi Vahini Yojana (MMKVY), Fadnavis stated that the government is transitioning agricultural power supply to solar energy. Of the 16,000 MW target, 2,000 MW has already been achieved, with full completion expected by 2026. This shift is intended to reduce electricity costs from Rs 8 to Rs 3 per unit, ensure daytime power for farmers, and cut cross-subsidy expenses by Rs 10,000 to Rs 15,000 crore.  

Furthermore, Fadnavis reaffirmed his government’s commitment to making the Marathwada and Vidarbha regions drought-free and resolving regional disputes in North Maharashtra, Vidarbha, and Marathwada. He announced major river-linking projects, including Wainganga-Nalganga, Nar-Par-Girna, and Tapi-Narmada, as part of efforts to achieve this goal.