Maharashtra’s Toll Exemption: A Political Move?
On October 14, Maharashtra Congress President Nana Patole criticized the state government’s decision to exempt tolls for light motor vehicles entering Mumbai, calling it an election ‘jumla’. He urged people not to take it seriously. Congress leader Prithviraj Chavan echoed this sentiment, describing the move as a desperate attempt by the government ahead of elections.
Government’s Announcement
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced that light motor vehicles would be exempt from tolls at five entry points into Mumbai. This decision, effective after midnight, aims to save time for commuters. Maharashtra minister Dadaji Dagadu Bhuse highlighted that this decision was under discussion for months and is now implemented to benefit around 2.80 lakh light vehicles.
Political Context
The announcement comes as Maharashtra prepares for assembly elections. The Congress party, part of the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition, is strategizing for the elections following a recent loss in Haryana. The upcoming elections will see a contest between the Maha Vikas Aghadi and the ruling Mahayuti Alliance.
Doubts Revealed
Maharashtra -: Maharashtra is a state in western India. It is known for its capital city, Mumbai, which is the financial hub of India.
Toll Exemption -: Toll exemption means that vehicles do not have to pay money at toll booths on roads. This is usually done to make travel easier and faster.
Nana Patole -: Nana Patole is a politician in India. He is the President of the Maharashtra Congress, a political party in India.
Prithviraj Chavan -: Prithviraj Chavan is an Indian politician. He is a member of the Congress party and has served as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra.
Eknath Shinde -: Eknath Shinde is a politician in India. He is the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, which means he is the head of the state government.
Election ‘jumla’ -: In this context, ‘jumla’ means a promise made during elections that may not be fulfilled. It is often used to criticize political promises that seem unrealistic.
Assembly elections -: Assembly elections are held to choose representatives for the state government. People vote to elect members who will make decisions for their state.
Haryana -: Haryana is a state in northern India. It is known for its agriculture and is close to the national capital, Delhi.
