BJP MLA Rahul Narwekar was elected unopposed as the Speaker of the 15th Maharashtra Legislative Assembly on Monday, becoming only the second individual to hold the position twice since the state’s formation in 1960.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis congratulated Narwekar during his speech, highlighting his performance during his first tenure.
While making a cursory reference to the verdict on the disputes involving the Shiv Sena and NCP, Fadnavis said, “During his first tenure as Speaker, Narwekar underwent some excruciating tests of his mettle, such as the decisions related to recognising the parties in the House. It was his ‘agnipariksha’ (trial by fire). His legal acumen proved invaluable during several debates in the chamber.”
He further claimed that Narwekar also faced personal attacks but never held a grudge and maintained his composure.
Fadnavis noted that, in addition to his parents, Narwekar likely gained valuable legislative insights from his father-in-law, Ramraje Nimbalkar, a former state minister and ex-chairman of the Maharashtra Legislative Council.
Fadnavis expressed confidence that Narwekar’s leadership would enhance the dignity of the Assembly.
The CM also took a swipe at Nana Patole, who resigned as Speaker during the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) government, clearing the way for Narwekar’s election.
Meanwhile, UBT Shiv Sena MLAs, including Aaditya Thackeray, staged a walkout during Narwekar’s election, criticising his role in supporting the “unconstitutional” government formed by Eknath Shinde’s faction in 2022. Thackeray accused Narwekar of facilitating the government’s actions during his previous tenure, including his controversial rulings on the legitimacy of the Shinde-led Shiv Sena and the faction led by Ajit Pawar.
Despite the walkout, Narwekar was elected unopposed as Speaker after the MVA chose not to contest the election. Narwekar, a BJP MLA from Colaba, filed his nomination papers on Sunday. On Monday morning, Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, along with several other senior leaders, presented Narwekar’s name for the position. Pro-tem Speaker Kalidas Kolambkar officially declared Narwekar’s election.
In his acceptance speech, Narwekar expressed gratitude and assured that he would treat all members of the Assembly equally, regardless of their political affiliations or numbers.
