Mumbai: Mumbai: BJP MLA Kalidas Kolambkar has been sworn in as the interim Speaker of the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly by Governor CP Radhakrishnan. The three-day special Assembly session begins tomorrow, during which Kolambkar will administer the oath to 288 newly elected MLAs of the 15th Legislative Assembly.
Kolambkar, representing the Wadala constituency in Mumbai, is among the most experienced MLAs, having won nine consecutive elections since 1990. Known for his adaptability, Kolambkar has successfully contested elections under three different political banners—Shiv Sena, Congress and BJP.
A staunch supporter of BJP MP Narayan Rane, Kolambkar started his political journey with Shiv Sena, serving as an MLA from 1990 to 2004. He later joined Congress before moving to BJP. In the recent elections, Kolambkar defeated Shiv Sena (Uddhav Thackeray faction) candidate and former mayor Shraddha Jadhav to retain his Wadala seat.
The election for the permanent Speaker and the trust vote for the Devendra Fadnavis-led grand alliance government will take place during the session starting December 7. Kolambkar’s appointment as interim Speaker recognizes his extensive experience and long-standing service in the Assembly.
He is known for securing broad support, including from minority communities, in his constituency. With his vast political experience, Kolambkar is set to play a crucial role in steering the Assembly proceedings.
