Maharashtra BJP chief Chandrashekhar Bawankule has unleashed a political thunderbolt, proclaiming Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis as the state’s ultimate brand. In a scathing attack on rivals, he declared the opposition’s so-called ‘atom bomb’ – their elaborate plans to unseat the government – a resounding flop.
Addressing a packed gathering in Nagpur, Bawankule painted Fadnavis as the architect of Maharashtra’s modern renaissance. From ushering in FDI inflows to revolutionizing urban transport, Fadnavis’ blueprint has transformed the state, he said. ‘Devendra Fadnavis isn’t merely a politician; he’s Maharashtra’s brand, recognized nationally and globally,’ Bawankule proclaimed.
The ‘atom bomb’ jibe targeted the MVA’s failed bids, including their short-lived government and recent coalition maneuvers. Bawankule mocked how these high-decibel threats evaporated post-Fadnavis’ comeback. ‘Their bomb was all hype, no explosion. Fadnavis neutralized it without breaking a sweat,’ he laughed.
This narrative gains traction amid swirling rumors of cabinet expansions and electoral preparations. Bawankule credited Fadnavis for stabilizing the tripartite Mahayuti alliance of BJP, Shinde Sena, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP, turning potential fractures into formidable strength.
Critics from Congress and NCP (SP) dismissed the praise as sycophancy, but ground reports indicate Fadnavis’ approval ratings soaring, especially in urban centers. Bawankule’s rhetoric is part of a broader BJP playbook to counter anti-incumbency by spotlighting Fadnavis’ governance record.
Looking ahead, Bawankule hinted at Fadnavis leading the charge in key battles like Pune and Mumbai. As Maharashtra braces for a high-stakes showdown, Fadnavis’ branding as the state’s pride could well define the electoral fortunes of the ruling bloc.