Supriya Sule claims Shinde government has compromised Maharashtra's economy

Mumbai: NCP (SP) working president Supriya Sule has raised concerns about the state of Maharashtra's economy under the Eknath Shinde-led government. Despite the government's announcement of populist schemes ahead of the state assembly election, Sule warned that the state's fiscal health is in trouble.

Sule claimed that Maharashtra's fiscal deficit has increased to almost Rs. 2 lakh crore, and the revenue deficit has surpassed the 3% mark. She alleged that the state government has been ignoring warnings from the finance department and approving large expenditures.

The NCP (SP) leader further claimed that the state finance department recently rejected the sports development department's demand of Rs. 1,781 crore to construct sports complexes, citing a lack of funds. Sule added that Maharashtra has always had a strong economic track record, which is being jeopardized by the Shinde government.

"When Jayant Patil (NCP(SP) leader) was the finance minister, Maharashtra was in fiscal surplus. From Yashwantrao Chavan to now, Maharashtra has enjoyed decades of economic excellence. Today, under the 'triple engine government,' we're facing an economic crisis," Ms. Sule said.

Addressing the ongoing agitations by different communities over reservation demands, Ms. Sule said her party is in favor of reservation for all. She accused the BJP of misguiding communities on the reservation issue and not fulfilling its promises in the past.

Sule's remarks underscore the growing political tensions between the NCP (SP) and the Shinde government, as the state gears up for the upcoming assembly elections.