As the political stage heats up in Maharashtra, the question dominating discussions is: Who will be the next Chief Minister? Devendra Fadnavis or Eknath Shinde? A pivotal meeting on Thursday in Delhi with Union Home Minister Amit Shah is expected to shed light on this much-anticipated decision. Caretaker CM Eknath Shinde, along with outgoing Deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis (BJP) and Ajit Pawar (NCP), will attend this crucial gathering to chart the course for Maharashtra’s new government.
In a significant statement on Wednesday, Shinde declared that the Shiv Sena would fully back Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s and Amit Shah’s decision on the CM post. “There will be no opposition from our side,” he assured, seemingly paving the way for a unified decision within the ruling coalition.
Shinde’s Commitment to NDA Leadership
Eknath Shinde’s announcement has drawn attention as he pledged Shiv Sena’s unconditional support to the NDA leadership. Speaking about his discussions with PM Modi and Amit Shah, Shinde emphasized, “We recognize Modi as our leader and will fully support whoever is chosen as the Chief Minister.”
However, Shinde’s statement has sparked contrasting reactions. Congress leader Nana Patole accused Shinde of succumbing to BJP’s pressure. On the other hand, Shiv Sena leader Shaina NC commended Shinde’s dedication, noting, “Shinde’s grassroots efforts and focus on common people’s welfare make him a natural leader. However, his decision to let the high command decide shows the Mahayuti alliance’s unity and focus on serving Maharashtra’s people.”
Shaina also took aim at political opponents, remarking that those who “abandoned ideologies for power” received a “strong response from the public.”
Fadnavis: The Frontrunner for CM
Amid this backdrop, senior BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis has emerged as a strong contender for the CM’s role. Political analysts believe that with Shinde aligning with the central leadership’s decisions, the BJP is gearing up to lead the new government. Fadnavis’ recent statements reinforce this speculation. Speaking in Nagpur, he asserted, “The Mahayuti coalition of Shiv Sena, BJP, and NCP remains united. All decisions will be made collectively with the senior leadership.”
Addressing rumors of discord, Fadnavis highlighted the coalition’s cohesion, stating that Shinde, Ajit Pawar, and he were working harmoniously. Referring to Shinde’s press conference in Thane, he dismissed reports of dissatisfaction among alliance members, especially regarding Shinde’s non-reappointment despite leading the alliance to a massive electoral victory.
A Unified Government Formula
According to sources, a meeting in Delhi on Thursday involving Maharashtra’s NDA leaders and BJP’s top brass will finalize the power-sharing formula. Reports suggest a likely structure of one Chief Minister and two Deputy Chief Ministers, representing the three major Mahayuti constituents. The BJP is expected to claim the CM’s post, while Shiv Sena and NCP are slated for the Deputy CM roles.
Fadnavis reiterated this sentiment, emphasizing that decisions within the Mahayuti coalition would be made jointly and reflect the alliance’s commitment to Maharashtra’s development. This approach aims to maintain unity and ensure a seamless transition to the new government.
Conclusion
As the suspense builds, the spotlight remains on Thursday’s meeting in Delhi, where the final decision on Maharashtra’s Chief Minister will likely unfold. With Devendra Fadnavis emerging as the frontrunner and Eknath Shinde pledging unconditional support to the NDA leadership, the Mahayuti alliance appears poised to present a unified front. Maharashtra’s political future is on the brink of a decisive turn, with citizens eagerly awaiting the next chapter.
