Fadnavis Pulls Up Ministers Over House Absences, Warns Against Remarks That Embarrass Govt
Fadnavis Pulls Up Ministers Over House Absences, Warns Against Remarks That Embarrass Govt Reported By, Last Updated: June 23, 2026, 14:08 IST Devendra Fadnavis warns
Fadnavis Pulls Up Ministers Over House Absences, Warns Against Remarks That Embarrass Govt Reported By, Last Updated: June 23, 2026, 14:08 IST Devendra Fadnavis warns Mahayuti ministers over absence in Legislature, demands better attendance, restraint in public comments, and a united front amid aggressive Opposition Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis. (Representational image) In a message aimed at tightening discipline within the Mahayuti government during the ongoing Monsoon Session of the Maharashtra Legislature, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has pulled up ministers over their absence from House proceedings and cautioned them against making public statements that could embarrass the government. At a meeting of the Council of Ministers ahead of key legislative business, Fadnavis is learnt to have expressed strong displeasure over the frequent absence of ministers from the Assembly and Council, particularly during discussions and Question Hour. According to sources, the Chief Minister made it clear that he would not tolerate legislative proceedings being disrupted or adjourned because the concerned minister is absent from the House.
The warning assumes significance as the government faces an aggressive Opposition during the Monsoon Session. Sources said Fadnavis reminded ministers that their primary responsibility during the session is to remain available in the legislature and actively participate in debates, discussions and government business. In what is being viewed as a stern signal to errant ministers, the Chief Minister is also understood to have indicated that details of ministerial attendance and instances of absence could be reviewed and placed on record, if necessary. Ministers may be asked to explain their absence whenever legislative work is affected because of their non-availability. Apart from attendance, Fadnavis is learnt to have raised concerns over public statements made by some ministers in recent weeks. Sources said he conveyed that comments made outside official government channels often provide the Opposition with an opportunity to target the ruling alliance and create an impression of discord within the administration.
The Chief Minister reportedly advised ministers to avoid airing differences through the media and instead resolve issues internally through established government mechanisms. He stressed the importance of maintaining collective responsibility and presenting a united front, particularly while the legislature is in session. The remarks come against the backdrop of the previous session, during which proceedings were reportedly affected on multiple occasions because the ministers concerned were not present in the House to reply to questions or participate in discussions. The issue had drawn criticism from Opposition members, who accused the government of taking legislative business lightly. With several important bills, debates and discussions lined up during the ongoing session, Fadnavis’ intervention is being seen as an effort to ensure greater accountability, improve coordination within the government and prevent avoidable controversies that could hand political ammunition to the Opposition. News18 Newsletter Handpicked stories, in your inbox A newsletter with the best of our journalism submit About the Author Mayuresh Ganapatye Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories.
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