The process of government formation in Maharashtra is set to gain momentum following a crucial meeting between caretaker CM Eknath Shinde, Devendra Fadnavis, Ajit Pawar, and Union Minister Amit Shah in Delhi on Thursday night, sources revealed.
This meeting is especially significant as BJP leadership is reportedly considering Maratha leaders for the top post, even though many believe Fadnavis will likely become CM for a third time. The growing influence of caste dynamics plays a key role in this decision, with a large number of Maratha MLAs across all parties. Fadnavis, a Brahmin, previously served as CM in 2014 and again for a short time in 2019. Sources suggest, If RSS’s influence prevails, Fadnavis’s chances of becoming CM are strong.
Despite Shiv Sena leaders pushing for Shinde to continue as CM, Shinde clarified on Wednesday that he has communicated to PM Modi and Amit Shah that he will accept whatever decision the BJP makes. A close associate of Shinde confirmed that the caretaker CM is unlikely to accept the position of deputy CM in the new government. Sanjay Shirsat, a Shiv Sena spokesperson, echoed this, stating, that Shinde will be part of the cabinet but will not take the deputy CM post. Instead, Shiv Sena will likely nominate another leader for the role.
Shinde’s son, MP Shrikant Shinde, expressed pride in his father’s alliance dharma, highlighting how Shinde prioritized collective governance over personal ambition. In a post on X, Shrikant emphasized his father’s strong connection with the people of Maharashtra and his commitment to serving all sections of society.
The BJP-led Mahayuti alliance delivered a stunning victory in the Maharashtra Assembly elections, winning 230 seats in the 288-member House. The BJP emerged as the largest party, securing 132 seats, followed by Shinde’s Shiv Sena with 57 seats and Ajit Pawar’s NCP with 41 seats. In contrast, the Congress-led Maha Vikas Aghadi suffered a setback, securing only 16 seats, while Sharad Pawar’s NCP won just 10 seats and Uddhav Thackeray’s faction won 20 seats.
The elections were held on November 20, with results declared on November 23. On Tuesday, Eknath Shinde tendered his resignation as CM to Governor C.P. Radhakrishnan, who asked Shinde to continue as caretaker CM until the new government is formed.
