Devendra Fadnavis will take the oath as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister this evening in a grand ceremony at Mumbai’s iconic Azad Maidan. The event will see the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP president JP Nadda, and Chief Ministers from 22 states. The swearing-in will also mark the return of a Mahayuti government, with Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar assuming the roles of Deputy Chief Ministers.
A Historic Third Term for Fadnavis
This marks the third time that Devendra Fadnavis, a 54-year-old MLA from Nagpur, will serve as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister. Fadnavis has described the role as a “technical post,” emphasizing collaborative decision-making within the Mahayuti alliance, which comprises the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP. The newly elected 132 MLAs of the BJP will cast their vote to endorse this nomination.
Shinde Agrees to Deputy CM Role
Eknath Shinde, former Maharashtra CM and Shiv Sena leader, has accepted the position of Deputy Chief Minister following encouragement from party leaders and MLAs. This decision was finalized during a meeting at his Mumbai residence, Varsha. Shinde’s inclusion in the cabinet symbolizes a unified approach within the alliance.
When and Where Will the Ceremony Take Place?
The grand swearing-in ceremony is scheduled for the evening of December 5 at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan. Approximately 2,000 women attendees, referred to as ladki bahin, will grace the event, highlighting inclusivity. The ceremony will also witness the participation of high-profile dignitaries, including Prime Minister Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Chief Ministers from BJP-ruled or allied states.
BJP’s Post-Election Momentum
The BJP has emerged victorious in the November 20 Maharashtra elections, securing 132 out of 288 seats—a record-breaking achievement. Together with its allies, the Shiv Sena led by Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar’s NCP, the Mahayuti coalition holds a commanding majority of 230 seats.
What’s Next for the Mahayuti Alliance?
The Mahayuti leaders convened at Vidhan Bhavan on Wednesday before proceeding to meet Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan at Raj Bhavan. Maharashtra BJP leader Sudhir Mungantiwar stated, “After the meeting at the Vidhan Bhavan, all Mahayuti leaders will head to the Raj Bhavan to meet Governor C. P. Radhakrishnan. The leaders will submit their claim to form the government in Maharashtra.”
This decisive action follows a BJP core committee meeting, where the groundwork for the coalition government was solidified.
A New Era for Maharashtra
With Devendra Fadnavis at the helm and a united Mahayuti government, Maharashtra is poised for a period of political stability and developmental strides. The inclusion of experienced leaders like Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar is expected to enhance the governance framework.
What lies ahead for the Mahayuti coalition and Maharashtra’s political landscape? Stay tuned for more updates.
The swearing-in ceremony of Devendra Fadnavis as Maharashtra’s Chief Minister marks the beginning of a new chapter in the state’s political history. With a strong majority and high-profile support, the Mahayuti government is ready to lead Maharashtra into a promising future.
