Palghar, Maharashtra: A subtle power struggle appears to be unfolding amongst the ruling coalition partners in Maharashtra, extending even to the efforts aimed at resolving citizens’ grievances in Palghar. Following two “Janata Darbars” (public outreach sessions) organized by Palghar’s Guardian Minister Ganesh Naik, a “Lok Darbar” (people’s court) is now scheduled for April 9 by Pratap Sarnaik, the Shiv Sena (Shinde faction)’s Liaison Minister.
Interestingly, the trend of holding such public forums towards the end of an MLA’s term isn’t new. Former Guardian Minister Ravindra Chavan also organized a Janata Darbar towards the conclusion of his MLA tenure (1999-2024). However, the subsequent change in ministerial roles, with Naik replacing Chavan, made consistent follow-up on previously raised issues challenging.
Guardian Minister Ganesh Naik, during his second Janata Darbar on March 28, claimed that 622 out of the 842 complaints received during his first session on February 20, 2025, had been resolved. His second Darbar saw the registration of 933 applications, though due to his busy schedule, direct interaction or hearings could only be held for approximately 400-425 of these.
During the organization of his Janata Darbars, Naik had indirectly commented on the Lok Darbar initiative. He had stated that any minister should hold such forums anywhere and make efforts to resolve the problems faced by the people at their doorstep. Responding to the upcoming Lok Darbar, local Shiv Sena officials emphasized their commitment to repeatedly reaching out to the public and continuing to organize such forums to address their concerns, highlighting the competitive spirit in these public outreach efforts.
Scheduled for April 9 at 2 pm at Palghar’s Planning Bhavan, Sarnaik’s Lok Darbar aims to tackle public grievances and assess the reach of government schemes, promising direct resolution attempts.
While the ruling alliance of BJP and Shiv Sena often projects an image of unity at the state level, a significant undercurrent of competition is evident among local cadres. Local Shiv Sena leaders have indicated that Sarnaik’s Lok Darbar will strive to address issues across all departments, adopting the approach implemented by then-Chief Minister Eknath Shinde during his tenure.
Promotional banners for the Lok Darbar exclusively feature Shiv Sena leaders and representatives, highlighting its partisan nature. Notably absent is Prakash Nikam, a former Zilla Parishad president who contested against the BJP in Vikramgad, was included in Ganesh Naik’s Janata Darbar but is conspicuously absent from the Lok Darbar’s banners.
