Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Sanjay Raut has alleged that Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has refrained from moving into ‘Varsha’, the official residence of the Chief Minister in South Mumbai, due to superstitious beliefs. According to PTI, Raut claimed that Fadnavis, who succeeded Eknath Shinde as Chief Minister after the November 2024 assembly elections, is avoiding residing in the bungalow because of supposed rituals linked to black magic.

As per PTI reports, Raut asserted that rumours are circulating about buffaloes allegedly sacrificed in Guwahati during Eknath Shinde’s visit to the Kamakhya temple, with their remains purportedly buried on the grounds of ‘Varsha’ to ensure that the Chief Minister’s post remains with Shinde. The Rajya Sabha member also challenged the Shiv Sena faction led by Shinde to respond to his claims.