Beed and Parbhani deaths: My government believes in action, not tragedy tourism, says Fadnavis

NAGPUR: Days after opposition leaders such as Sharad Pawar and Rahul Gandhi visited Beed and Parbhani following the murder of a sarpanch and custodial death of an aspiring lawyer, chief minister Devendra Fadnavis said Wednesday that his government’s response and actions were more important than symbolic visits. . “I don’t believe in promoting tragedy tourism,” he said.

Nagpur: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with State Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, addresses a press conference, in Nagpur, Wednesday, December 25, 2024. (PTI Photo)(PTI12_25_2024_000172B) (PTI)

In his first comprehensive interaction with the media in Nagpur since he was sworn in as chief minister earlier this month, Fadnavis responded to questions on the two controversial incidents, which took place soon after he assumed office. The Shiv Sena (UBT) had criticized Fadnavis for not visiting the districts after the incidents.

“Both incidents are extremely serious. What matters is the rapid action taken by my government. While I was busy with the winter session, Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar visited the families of the victims,” Fadnavis said.

The Chief Minister highlighted the historic mandate received by the Mahayuti government in the recently concluded parliamentary elections and acknowledged the heightened public expectations. “Thanks to my constructive policy, I am ready to take on any challenges. We will keep our promises and work for the comprehensive and balanced development of the state,” he said.

Reflecting on his leadership, Fadnavis noted how much he had grown as a leader since becoming chief minister in 2014. “During my first term as CM, I overcame initial apprehensions regarding my inexperience. Over the last two and a half years as Deputy CM, managing key portfolios such as housing and energy, I have acquired considerable expertise.

Fadnavis, who continues to hold the real estate and energy portfolios in the new state cabinet, revealed a 25-year roadmap for the energy sector, promising stable electricity rates or reduced. The state government is planning to provide solar power facilities in homes provided to underprivileged people under various schemes. “We will also explore how we could provide low-cost energy to customers,” he said. He also highlighted the completion of irrigation projects and six river linking initiatives to boost the economy of Maharashtra.

Responding to a question on the issue of Naxalism, Fadnavis said left-wing extremism was at its lowest level in Maoist-infested Gadchiroli. “Usually, the chief minister does not have any specific responsibility in a district. However, I must say that I am keen to be the guardian minister of Gadchiroli district,” he said, adding that he envisaged Gadchiroli becoming a center of mining and steel production.

Responding to concerns over rising cybercrime in the state, Fadnavis announced an integrated approach combining cyber and digital platforms to meet the challenges of the new age.

Fadnavis also dismissed the Congress charge that Union Home Minister Amit Shah had disrespected Babasaheb Ambedkar, calling it baseless. “The Congress has always undermined Ambedkar. Instead of apologizing for their past actions, they are now fabricating narratives to target BJP leaders who honored Ambedkar’s legacy,” he said.