Maharashtra’s political landscape is in flux as caretaker CM Eknath Shinde heads to his village in Mahabaleshwar for a brief retreat, following a key meeting with Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi. Sources say the BJP is working to convince Shinde to accept the role of deputy CM in the upcoming government, but negotiations are still ongoing.
Swearing-In Delayed, Likely to Happen on December 5
The swearing-in ceremony for the new Maharashtra cabinet, initially expected to take place on Monday, is now set to be delayed until December 5. Sources suggest the delay is due to the ongoing negotiations between the Mahayuti alliance partners, and the busy schedule of Amit Shah, who is juggling the formation talks with other national responsibilities.
The December 5 ceremony is likely to take place at Azad Maidan, with PM Modi expected to attend as the star of the show. Talks are progressing, but no final decisions have been made yet.
BJP Push for Fadnavis as CM, Shinde’s Role Still Unclear
During the late-night deliberations at Shah’s residence, Shinde reportedly agreed that the BJP, with its 132 MLAs, is the natural claimant for the CM post. The key sticking point remains the deputy CM roles. While Shinde has not yet confirmed whether he will accept the position, sources suggest the BJP is hopeful of persuading him to join the Fadnavis team.
Additionally, there is talk of Ajit Pawar from the NCP taking the other deputy CM position. It is also likely that the Speaker’s post will go to a BJP nominee, with both Shiv Sena and BJP reportedly aligning on the matter.
Power-Sharing Challenges for Mahayuti Partners
The power-sharing arrangement among the partners is more complicated than just a mathematical division based on the number of seats. Both Shiv Sena and NCP have argued that a fair distribution of portfolios should not be determined solely by seat count, as this could result in a BJP-dominated government.
Instead, the partners are trying to craft a more fair and objective arrangement, but this approach is tricky. Each party has its ideas about what is just, and balancing these interests is no easy task.
Shinde’s Health and Village Retreat
Meanwhile, Eknath Shinde has taken a short break in his village, Dare Tamb, in Mahabaleshwar, reportedly due to being unwell. Uday Samant, a close associate, mentioned that Shinde had been running a fever and needed rest in a healthier environment. Shinde is expected to return to Mumbai soon to continue discussions on the government formation.
When asked about Shinde’s potential acceptance of the deputy CM post, Samant stated, We want Shinde Saheb to continue in Maharashtra politics and be part of the government. Sources added that the Shani Amavasya weekend may also be a factor in the delay of any significant political moves.
BJP Legislative Meeting Scheduled for Monday
Sources close to the BJP have confirmed that their elected MLAs will meet in Mumbai on Monday to elect the party’s legislative leader. Afterward, the legislative heads of the Mahayuti alliance will meet to finalize decisions on the CM, deputy CM posts, and portfolio allocation.
The BJP is keen on sending a message that compromise is expected from all sides. If Fadnavis, a former CM, can accept a deputy CM role, then Shinde too could take up the position, signaling unity and flexibility within the alliance.
What’s Next for Maharashtra’s Government Formation?
The Maharashtra government formation remains in a delicate balance, with multiple parties negotiating their roles and responsibilities. While Eknath Shinde’s role is still uncertain, the next few days are critical for finalizing the cabinet and the key posts. BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP all need to come together and make compromises to avoid further delays and secure a functional government.
