shaktipeeth highway

The Maharashtra assembly passed a bill amending the Highways Act 1955, extending the land acquisition period for highways from one year to two years. This change is met with criticism from activists who believe it aims to suppress dissent and unfairly impacts farmers, particularly those involved in the shaktipeeth highway protests.

Following state cabinet's approval of the Rs 20,787 crore Nagpur-Goa shaktipeeth highway, NCP (SP) working president Supriya Sule has criticized the project, citing the state's dire financial situation. Sule questions the government's ability to afford the massive expenditure, especially with existing debts and unpaid employee salaries.

Three MLAs from Mahayuti have opposed the Nagpur-Goa Maharashtra shaktipeeth highway through Kolhapur district, citing adverse effects on local farmers. Despite the chief minister's support for the project, dissenting legislators plan to escalate the issue during the upcoming assembly session and participate in protests if necessary.