Senior Congress leader and Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Satej Patil, launched a sharp critique against the Maharashtra state government on Friday. He accused the administration of failing to deliver the anticipated development in Kolhapur, even though the Kolhapur Municipal Corporation has been under an administrator's rule for the past three years.
Congress's Positive Agenda and Public-Driven Manifesto
Outlining his party's strategy for the upcoming civic polls, Patil announced that the Congress will approach the public with a completely positive agenda over the next 15 days. The party's manifesto for the January 15 municipal elections will be directly shaped by the opinions, expectations, and needs of Kolhapur's voters, he asserted.
He elaborated on the new campaign tagline, "Kolhapur Kassa? Tumhi Mhansheela Tassa" (Kolhapur is what its people want it to be). Patil emphasized that this was not merely an election slogan but represented the core of the party's entire development plan. "Congress has launched a special campaign to prepare the manifesto, ensuring the roadmap reflects the aspirations and requirements of Kolhapur residents," the MLC stated.
Critique of Allies and Opposition Politics
Patil did not limit his criticism to the ruling dispensation alone. He also took a dig at the politics of Shiv Sena in Ichalkaranji. He claimed that despite securing a majority there, the party failed to deliver justice to its own workers. "In contrast, Congress has consistently supported its cadre," he said.
He further accused the BJP of pursuing an agenda to eliminate its allies. "This trend is evident once again during the municipal elections, whether concerning Shiv Sena or NCP," Patil alleged, highlighting the ongoing political friction within the ruling coalition.
Opposition to Electricity Tariff Hike
Shifting focus to a pressing public issue, Patil addressed the proposed electricity tariff hike. He revealed that although the Maharashtra Electricity Regulatory Commission (MERC) had recommended withdrawing the hike, the state government ignored the advice and raised tariffs again.
The matter, which had seen legal battles reaching the High Court and Supreme Court, has now moved to a new phase. Hearings are being conducted at the offices of divisional commissioners. Patil urged citizens to strongly oppose the hike. He announced that the hearing for western Maharashtra would be held in Pune on March 8, where he pledged to personally attend and demonstrate why the tariff increase was technically unjustified.
The Congress leader's comprehensive attack sets the stage for a heated campaign for the Kolhapur civic body polls, with development and public utility issues taking center stage.
