Maharashtra Assembly Fight: Padalkar, Awhad Supporters Clash Inside Vidhan Bhavan

Mumbai, 18th July 2025: Tensions flared inside the Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan on Thursday when supporters of BJP MLA Gopichand Padalkar and NCP (Sharad Pawar faction) MLA Jitendra Awhad got into a heated scuffle in the legislative assembly lobby — even as the House was in session. Eyewitnesses said that Padalkar’s supporters appeared to take a more aggressive stance during the confrontation.

Following the altercation, Padalkar chose not to comment, stating that he had no information about what had transpired.

On the other hand, an emotional and angry Jitendra Awhad addressed the media, claiming, “I’ve been receiving threats, abusive messages, and now they’ve brought goons right into the assembly building to attack me. This is nothing but arrogance born out of power. If elected representatives aren’t safe in the Vidhan Bhavan, what’s the point of being an MLA?”

Political Reactions
Reacting to the incident, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis termed it “unfortunate.” He added, “The incident took place in the area that falls under the authority of the Speaker and the Chairman of the Legislative Council and Assembly. I have urged them to take this matter seriously and initiate strong action. Such behavior cannot be condoned.”

Uddhav Thackeray, Shiv Sena (UBT) chief and MLC, also condemned the breach of security, stating, “If this kind of hooliganism can reach the Vidhan Bhavan, who allowed them inside? How did they even get entry passes? If the legislature itself is not secure, what’s the use of having it at all?”

Adding further context to the rising tension, NCP (SP) MLA Rohit Pawar recalled a recent incident involving the same two MLAs. “A few days ago, Awhad was interacting with people inside the assembly premises when a car belonging to a ruling party MLA came speeding towards the crowd. The vehicle stopped abruptly, and when the MLA got out, the door hit Awhad. A minor confrontation ensued, but Awhad controlled his supporters despite being threatened.”

He alleged that Thursday’s incident appeared to be a continuation of that dispute, saying, “Today, they brought in outsiders with the sole intention of assaulting Awhad inside the assembly complex.”