Kolhapur : Rival camps in the Gokul Dairy board have started moving their newly elected directors out of the district ahead of the Oct 29 chairperson election, underscoring intense manoeuvring over quorum and control of one of western Maharashtra’s most influential cooperative institutions.
Under Gokul’s bylaws, at least 14 directors must be present to elect the chairperson. Samvichari Aghadi, with 13 directors, needs at least one more member, while Mahayuti requires the support or presence of two additional directors. “We want to do justice to the 5.5 lakh voters who have stood behind us.
Because neither camp has the numbers required on its own to comfortably meet the quorum needed for the meeting, the election has assumed significance.
We will work honestly to take the Gokul brand beyond Maharashtra,” said Satej Patil . It will not lead to the appointment of an administrator at Gokul,” he said. The numbers have fuelled speculation over cross-voting, absences and possible last-minute negotiations. It also remains unclear whether the election will be unanimous or result in a direct contest. Samvichari Aghadi has already finalised Shashikant Patil-Chuyekar as its candidate for the chairperson’s post. We will take all necessary decisions for the welfare of milk-producing farmers. Amid the political calculations, lawyer Baba Indulkar urged both sides not to politicise the process. “No one should politicise this election. Even if one alliance does not attend the chairperson’s election meeting, the only consequence will be that the meeting will be postponed to another day.
Meanwhile, Mahayuti functionaries are expected to meet on Oct 28 to finalise their strategy for the election.