The Devendra Fadnavis Set to Return as Maharashtra CM BJP has claimed control of half of Maharashtra’s cabinet, holding 12 berths and three high-profile ministries. To balance the alliance, the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena will take charge of significant portfolios such as Urban Development, Public Works, and Water Resources, according to sources. The Ajit Pawar-led NCP will likely receive nine cabinet positions as part of the power-sharing arrangement. With Maharashtra’s cabinet limited to 43 ministers, including the Chief Minister, the BJP ensures its dominance by keeping the lion’s share.
After initial resistance, Eknath Shinde accepted BJP’s decision to appoint the Chief Minister from its own ranks. In a bid to maintain alliance harmony, he announced his support for the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah’s choice for the position. Despite his concession, BJP insiders indicate that Shinde will remain a significant player through the allocation of key ministries. Meanwhile, reports suggest that two Deputy Chief Ministers—one from the Shiv Sena and one from the NCP—will back the BJP’s Chief Minister, ensuring a power equilibrium. Ajit Pawar has hinted that the swearing-in ceremony might happen this weekend.
Shinde Steps Back, Opposition Intensifies Criticism
Following days of political drama, Shinde declared that he would not oppose the BJP’s Chief Ministerial pick. He stated, “I will not stand in the way,” signaling his readiness to cooperate. However, Shinde’s bargaining power has significantly diminished as the BJP already commands a majority in the 288-member Assembly with 132 seats and the NCP’s unwavering support.
This development gave the opposition a chance to attack Shinde’s leadership. The Shiv Sena (UBT) criticized Shinde for his lack of influence within the Mahayuti alliance. Party leader Ambadas Danve remarked that the BJP takes decisions unilaterally and does not bend under pressure from Shinde. Earlier, Sanjay Raut, a senior Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, accused the BJP of sidelining Shinde after using him to topple Uddhav Thackeray’s government.
Devendra Fadnavis Poised to Become Chief Minister
Although the BJP has yet to formally announce its Chief Ministerial candidate, Devendra Fadnavis remains the strongest contender. As a former Chief Minister and a pivotal figure in the Mahayuti alliance’s election victory, Fadnavis enjoys widespread support within the party. During the fall of Uddhav Thackeray’s government, Fadnavis agreed to take the Deputy Chief Minister position reluctantly, even though the BJP was the dominant ally. Now, with this historic electoral performance, BJP workers are pushing for his return as Chief Minister.
The NCP has also reportedly endorsed Fadnavis’s candidacy. However, the BJP is carefully evaluating the potential fallout of this decision. Home Minister Amit Shah recently consulted senior BJP leader Vinod Tawde to assess the reaction of the Maratha community. Replacing Shinde, a Maratha, with Fadnavis, a Brahmin, could stir tensions. These concerns stem from past controversies, such as Maratha leader Manoj Jarange-Patil’s accusation of Fadnavis being a “Maratha-hater” during the reservation protests. The BJP intends to resolve these issues before making an official announcement.
Balancing Power Amid Challenges
The BJP’s strategic moves reflect its determination to lead Maharashtra’s government while maintaining alliance stability. By offering Shinde’s Sena key portfolios and involving the NCP in power-sharing, the party aims to consolidate its position. As the state eagerly awaits the new cabinet’s swearing-in, the BJP’s approach highlights its focus on achieving a fine balance between governance and alliance dynamics.
Fadnavis as Maharashtra CM: BJP’s Strategy to Ease Eknath Shinde’s Setback
In a significant political shift, Eknath Shinde stepped down as Maharashtra Chief Minister on Tuesday, November 26, paving the way for Devendra Fadnavis to reclaim the position. At a surprise press conference on Wednesday afternoon, Shinde effectively relinquished his Chief Ministerial aspirations for the second time. He declared, “I’ll not be an obstacle in Mahayuti,” signaling his acceptance of the BJP’s dominance in the alliance.
Shinde directly conveyed to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Home Minister Amit Shah his unwavering commitment to the coalition. He assured them that he would not block the BJP’s decision, demonstrating his understanding of the numbers game—57 seats held by his faction compared to the BJP’s commanding 132 seats. This stark disparity leaves little room for Shinde to demand the top position.
The spotlight now shifts to how Shinde adapts to this political realignment. Will he accept a Deputy Chief Minister role, mirroring Fadnavis’s earlier compromise, or push for an alternative arrangement? The coming weeks will test his resilience as he navigates the challenges of being demoted from the helm of Maharashtra’s leadership.
BJP’s Approach to Soften the Blow
To mitigate Shinde’s potential discontent, the BJP is likely to shift focus to areas where the Shiv Sena’s interests lie. One significant opportunity lies in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections, scheduled for next year. By supporting the Sena in securing control over the BMC, the BJP can offer a compensatory platform for Shinde’s leadership.
Additionally, the BJP is expected to negotiate crucial portfolios within the cabinet to bolster Shinde’s influence. By assigning strategic ministries, the BJP aims to ensure Shinde’s relevance in the government while maintaining its dominance.
A Tumultuous Journey
Shinde’s political trajectory reflects a rollercoaster of highs and lows. He engineered the split within the Shiv Sena, toppled the Uddhav Thackeray government, and rose to power as Chief Minister. Now, he finds himself relegated to a secondary role as the BJP asserts its authority in the alliance.
Despite these setbacks, Shinde’s willingness to compromise underscores his pragmatic approach to coalition politics. As the Mahayuti alliance reshapes Maharashtra’s political landscape, Shinde’s ability to adapt will determine his future role and influence in state governance.
The BJP’s calculated efforts to balance power dynamics while retaining Shinde’s loyalty will play a crucial role in ensuring the stability of the alliance. With the stage set for Fadnavis’s return, the focus remains on how Shinde rebuilds his stature in the months ahead.
Devendra Fadnavis Likely to Return as Maharashtra CM: Amit Shah to Hold Crucial Meeting
Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to meet Maharashtra’s caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis, and NCP leader Ajit Pawar in New Delhi today to finalize the new Maharashtra government. Discussions will focus on selecting the Chief Minister and formalizing cabinet roles, with a decision expected soon.
Shinde Steps Back, Paves Way for BJP
Eknath Shinde announced his full support for the BJP’s decision regarding the Chief Minister’s post. Speaking at a press conference at his residence in Thane, Shinde confirmed, “I called PM Narendra Modi and Amit Shah yesterday to inform them of my complete backing. I assured them there will be no roadblocks from my side.”
Despite speculation about his disappointment over losing the CM position, Shinde dismissed such rumors. “There’s no frustration or annoyance. I’ve always worked for the Mahayuti alliance, and I’m committed to continuing that,” he emphasized. Reflecting on his tenure, Shinde said, “For me, CM stands for ‘common man,’ not Chief Minister.”
BJP Dominates as Mahayuti Triumphs
The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance achieved a landslide victory in the November 20 Maharashtra assembly elections, winning 230 out of 288 seats. The BJP emerged as the dominant player with 132 seats, while Shinde’s Shiv Sena won 57 seats, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP secured 41 seats. In contrast, the opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) faced a significant setback, with Congress winning only 16 seats and Uddhav Thackeray’s faction securing 20 seats.
Spotlight on Fadnavis
With the BJP’s commanding position, Devendra Fadnavis is widely expected to return as Chief Minister. Fadnavis’s leadership during the alliance’s thumping victory has solidified his position as the most suitable candidate. Meanwhile, Ajit Pawar confirmed that the new government would have two Deputy Chief Ministers, likely from the Shiv Sena and NCP.
Shinde acknowledged the BJP’s support during his tenure as CM, thanking PM Modi and Amit Shah for their guidance. The transition, he said, was a natural progression. “I thank the people of Maharashtra for their overwhelming support and promise to continue serving as a loyal worker of the Mahayuti,” Shinde added.
Swearing-In Ceremony by Month-End
The swearing-in of the new government is expected on November 30 or December 1, according to Ajit Pawar. As the stage is set for Fadnavis’s return, the Mahayuti alliance looks poised to begin a new chapter in Maharashtra politics.
