Mumbai, November 30, 2024: Eknath Shinde, who recently resigned as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister following the Mahayuti alliance’s overwhelming victory in the state assembly elections, finds himself at the center of suspense regarding the state’s next leadership. Shinde is currently serving as the caretaker Chief Minister while deliberations within the alliance are ongoing. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is strongly advocating for its leader and current Deputy CM, Devendra Fadnavis, to take the top post, citing the party’s dominant position with 132 seats in the 288-member assembly.
Despite the BJP’s push, factions within the Shiv Sena are lobbying for Shinde to retain the CM position, emphasizing his pivotal role in securing the alliance’s success. Shiv Sena leaders argue that precedents, such as those in Bihar and Haryana, support retaining Shinde despite the BJP’s numerical advantage. Meanwhile, the Ajit Pawar-led NCP faction, also part of the alliance, has indicated its support for Fadnavis, further reducing Shinde’s leverage in negotiations.
Amid these developments, Shinde has traveled to his native village in Satara. Aides describe this move as a period of introspection before making a critical decision about his political future. Supporters had planned a show of strength at the CM’s official residence in Mumbai, but Shinde urged them to exercise restraint, expressing confidence in the alliance’s leadership to make the right decision.
The Mahayuti alliance is expected to finalize its leadership choice during the second round of high-level meetings in Mumbai. BJP sources suggest that the announcement of the new Chief Minister is likely by December 2, with the cabinet formation anticipated shortly thereafter.
