Following a physical altercation between supporters of Nationalist Congress Party (Sharad Pawar) [NCP(SP)] MLA Jitendra Awhad and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLA Gopichand Padalkar at the Maharashtra Vidhan Bhavan, both legislators have apologized for the incident. Maharashtra Assembly Speaker Rahul Narwekar addressed the situation, leading to apologies from both Awhad and Padalkar.
The scuffle occurred on Thursday, July 17, 2025, in the Vidhan Bhavan complex, following a heated exchange between Awhad and Padalkar. The clash took place in the ground floor lobby and escalated briefly before onlookers intervened. Taking a serious view of the incident, Speaker Narwekar sought a report. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis condemned the incident, asserting that such events tarnish the legislature's dignity and called for stringent action against those involved.
In response to the incident, Speaker Narwekar announced that visitors would be prohibited from entering the Vidhan Bhavan during the legislative session. Only ministers, legislators, their personal secretaries, and government officials will be permitted inside. Additionally, the Speaker mentioned a decision regarding the formation of a legislature ethics committee would be made within a week.
Adding to the aftermath, police detained Nitin Deshmukh, an NCP (SP) worker, and Hrishikesh, a BJP worker, for their involvement in the brawl. Awhad protested Deshmukh's detention, alleging bias by law enforcement. Padalkar, while speaking to reporters, stated that he apologized to the Assembly Speaker and that his supporters had made a mistake. He requested the Speaker to issue strict warnings to them.
Padalkar also expressed his regret, acknowledging the unfortunate nature of the incident. Fadnavis echoed this sentiment, deeming the incident "absolutely inappropriate" and advocating for a thorough investigation.
The incident also sparked online reactions, including commentary from comedian Kunal Kamra.