Maharashtra: Y+ security cover for rebel Sena MLAs except Shinde
What's the story
The Centre on Sunday granted Y+ category security cover to 15 dissident Shiv Sena MLAs, following reports of Shiv Sena workers vandalizing their offices and assets. However, the security cover list does not contain rebel leader Eknath Shinde. Notably, Y' category security is made up of eight people, including one or two commandos and police officers.
Context
Why does this story matter?
Maharashtra is going through a political crisis following a rebellion by MLA Eknath Shinde. Later, he was joined by other Shiva Sena MLAs against the present government. He was displeased with the Sena joining hands with the Congress and NCP to form the ruling Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) alliance. He claimed the Sena MLAs were sidelined, while alliance partners benefited the most.
Security
Security also beefed up outside houses of other MLAs
The CRPF has also been stationed at the house of Dadar MLA Sada Sarvankar, who has joined Shinde and other dissident Shiv Sena MLAs in Guwahati. Those who have left the party, according to Sena chief and CM Uddhav Thackeray's followers, are "betrayers." Meanwhile, the police have been sent to all offices of the Shinde camp in Thane, Dombivli, Kalyan, and Ulhasnagar.
Information
These rebel MLAs have been given Y+ security
As per India Today, the MLAs given Y+ security include Ramesh Bornare, Mangesh Kudalkar, Sanjay Shirsat, Latabai Sonawane, Prakas Surve, Sadanand Saranavnkar, Yogesh Dada Kadam, Pratap Sarnaik, Yamini Jadhav, Pradeep Jaiswal, Sanjay Rathod, Dadaji Bhuse, Dilip Lande, Balaji Kalyanar, and Sandipan Bhumare.
Notice
Disqualification notices issued against 16 rebel MLAs
On the other hand, Deputy Speaker of Maharashtra Assembly Narhari Zirwal issued a disqualification notice to 16 rebel Shiv Sena MLAs who are supporting Shinde and currently staying in Guwahati, Assam, as per reports. Now, all the 16 MLAs to whom the disqualification notice has been issued are supposed to file their written replies by Monday (June 27), the reports added.
Statement
Traitors won't be taken back into Sena: Aaditya Thackeray
Meanwhile, Sena leader and Maharashtra cabinet minister Aaditya Thackeray on Sunday warned the rebels now camped in Guwahati that traitors would not be welcomed back into the party. In a speech to party workers on Sunday, the 30-year-old son of Shiv Sena president and Chief Minister Thackeray, said the party's doors are open to anyone who wishes to return.