Maha govt to conduct performance audits of ministers

Nagpur: Chief minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday announced the BJP-led Mahayuti govt in Maharashtra would regularly conduct performance audits of ministers, signalling a robust effort to ensure accountability and transparency in governance.Talking to reporters on the eve of the winter assembly session, Fadnavis said performance of ministers would be periodically reviewed, and necessary corrective measures would follow if underperformance is detected. "The audits won't necessarily wait for a 2.5-year period. If it's clear that a minister isn't performing, we will review the situation promptly," Fadnavis asserted, adding this proactive approach aligns with the govt's commitment to efficiency.
Deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar hinted at the possibility of rotating ministries to allow more legislators to contribute, further emphasising the merit-based approach. Fadnavis also revealed the cabinet expansion might include one more woman minister to fill the sole vacant position. "This cabinet is a healthy mix of experienced leaders and fresh faces, with fair representation across OBCs, Marathas, SCs, and Dhangars," he noted.
On exclusions, the CM remarked, "Those left out could be assigned other critical roles. Some exclusions were based on performance."
The winter session, starting Monday, will discuss 20 bills, with significant attention on the Opposition's narrative against electronic voting machines (EVMs). Fadnavis dismissed allegations of EVM tampering, calling it a misplaced attack on democracy. "EVM for me stands for ‘Every Vote for Maharashtra' and symbolises faith in the democratic process. The Opposition's outdated letter, referring to the monsoon session, instead of winter, reflects their lack of seriousness," he quipped.
He called on Opposition members to engage constructively during the assembly session. "We will not shy away from discussions or suppress opposition voices. True democracy thrives when leaders speak in the House and not just before the media. Discussions in the assembly ensure accountability," he emphasised.
On queries on soyabean procurement and minimum support price (MSP), Fadnavis said his govt broke records in soyabean procurement, achieving the highest figures in 15 years. "Farmers will receive the MSP-market price difference directly in their accounts, similar to the ₹5-7 per litre subsidy provided to milk farmers," he assured.
Deputy CM Pawar reiterated the govt's commitment to addressing farmer distress, calling for Opposition cooperation in passing vital bills during the session. Shinde slammed Uddhav Thackeray, stating they put the Rana couple behind jail for chanting Hanuman Chalisa. "Now they have begun accepting freedom fighter Vinayak Savarkar after the assembly polls debacle," he said.
The CM also addressed the recent unrest in Parbhani, where a mentally ill individual desecrated the Constitution, leading to violent protests. "Violence is not a solution, and even Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar would not have approved of such action. We respect the Constitution and have sworn an oath to uphold its values. Strict action will be taken against those indulging in vandalism," he said.
Regarding the murder of a sarpanch in Beed, the CM said three suspects were arrested, and the case handed over to CID. He announced the formation of a Special Investigation Team (SIT) to ensure a thorough inquiry. "Such heinous crimes will be dealt with seriously, and no accused will be spared," he warned.
Responding to concerns of outspoken party members, Fadnavis acknowledged BJP leader Gopichand Padalkar's aggressive rhetoric but urged restraint. "He has a promising future but needs to exercise caution in his public statements," he said.
The CM concluded with a call for unity and collaboration across party lines to develop Maharashtra, particularly Vidarbha, which remains central to the govt's agenda. With a strengthened council of ministers and a clear governance roadmap, the Mahayuti govt aims to address key issues such as farmer welfare, infrastructure development, and law and order, ensuring that Maharashtra continues on a growth trajectory.