Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar has expressed confidence in delivering a verdict by January 10, 2024, on the cross-petitions filed by rival factions of the Shiv Sena, each seeking the disqualification of the other’s MLAs.
Narwekar confirmed on Wednesday that the hearings have concluded, encompassing arguments from both sides—the Shiv Sena led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and the Uddhav Thackeray-headed Shiv Sena (UBT).
Last week, the Supreme Court extended the deadline for Narwekar to decide on the cross-petitions from December 31 to January 10 next year.
Following the Supreme Court’s directive, Narwekar initiated daily hearings in Mumbai after being mandated to deliver a verdict by December 31. The process continued during the morning hours of the winter session of the state legislature, concluding in Nagpur on Wednesday.
“I see no impediment in issuing the order by January 10. The decision will be grounded in law and constitutional provisions,” stated the speaker at Vidhan Bhavan in Nagpur.
“I have adhered to all legal provisions. The order will be released as mandated by the Supreme Court after a thorough review of all the documents,” he added.