Even as the Budget session of the Maharashtra legislature got off to a stormy off today, the assembly witnessed banter between the opposition and treasury benches.
The BJP-led government appeared to be on back-foot over a goof-up in translation during Governor Vidyasagar Rao's address.
During the governor's customary address to the joint sitting of the two houses on the opening day of the session, Marathi translation was not available, triggering protest by the opposition members.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavisapologised over the episode.
However, the incident did not stop members from both sides from indulging in some light-hearted exchange of words.
Jayant Patil (NCP) said the government had "murdered" the Marathi language.
Even before Patil could complete his sentence,Finance Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar countered him, saying the language is not so small to be "murdered" by a "small" incident.
After this, Patil quietly sat down but before that he asked Mungantiwar to take care of his throat since he has to present the budget next week.
Ajit Pawar (NCP) stood up and looking in the direction of Fadnavis, remarked, "Mungantiwar was unable to attend the winter session in December due to a surgery of his vocal cords. He was speaking so loudly now.
"What will happen to the budget if something happens to his voice. Is there a conspiracy to cut him down to size."
Pawar's witty retort evoked laughter from Fadnavis and Mungantiwar.
Mungantiwar underwent a surgery reportedly for removal of tumour in his vocal cords and was advised to speak softly.
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