Maharashtra CM: Despite the decisive victory of the Mahayuti alliance in Maharashtra’s recent assembly elections, the suspense over the Chief Minister’s position continues. The 14th Maharashtra State Assembly's term is set to end today, November 26, and incumbent CM Eknath Shinde has formally resigned. However, the BJP-led coalition has yet to announce who will assume the top post.
Eknath Shinde Submits Resignation
On Tuesday, Shinde submitted his resignation to Governor CP Radhakrishnan at the Raj Bhavan. Deputy CM Ajit Pawar and former Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis accompanied him. Shinde has agreed to remain as acting Chief Minister until a new leader is appointed, allowing time for the coalition to finalize its decision on who will lead the state.
Ajit Pawar's NCP and the BJP's Support for Fadnavis
Reports suggest that within the BJP, there is strong support for Devendra Fadnavis to return as Chief Minister. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena MLAs are pushing for Eknath Shinde to retain his position. The situation is further complicated by the position of Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction, which has reportedly aligned itself with the BJP's preference for Fadnavis.
In terms of seat distribution, the BJP holds a commanding 132 seats, Shiv Sena 57, and the NCP 41 seats in the 288-member assembly. Since only 145 seats are needed for a majority, the BJP requires support from just one of its allies to secure the numbers, putting Shinde at a disadvantage in his bid to keep the CM post.
Shinde Appeals for Calm Among Supporters
Amid the ongoing discussions within the BJP leadership, a group of Shiv Sena supporters planned a demonstration outside Varsha, the official CM residence, to show their support for Shinde. However, Shiv Sena’s leadership intervened to prevent any disruptive gatherings. Shinde also took to social media, expressing his gratitude for the support but urging his followers to avoid any public displays of solidarity that might escalate tensions.
The Shiv Sena’s Call for the 'Bihar Model'
In an attempt to bolster Shinde’s candidacy, Shiv Sena leaders have drawn parallels with political dynamics in other states, notably the ‘Bihar model.’ According to Shiv Sena spokesperson Naresh Mhaske, the situation in Maharashtra could reflect the arrangement in Bihar, where the BJP, despite holding more seats, allowed JD(U) leader Nitish Kumar to serve as Chief Minister.
Fadnavis Seen as the People’s Choice by BJP Leaders
On the other side of the debate, BJP MLC Praveen Darekar has voiced strong support for Fadnavis, arguing that the recent election results reflect a popular mandate for him. Darekar noted that Fadnavis is both well-qualified and experienced, with a track record of leadership and coalition-building. He emphasized that Fadnavis has consistently prioritized party unity, ensured fair candidate selection across allies, and demonstrated the capacity to step back when necessary for the greater good.
Name will be announced by November 30
Meanwhile, as the suspense over the Maharashtra Chief Minister grows, Shiv Sena MLA and party spokesperson Sanjay Pandurang Shirsat said that the name will be announced by November 30.
Shirsat, Aurangabad West MLA, talking to media stated that the name of the next chief minister of Maharashtra will be clear by Saturday and this time around multiple new faces will be inducted in the Maharashtra cabinet, hinting at a possible major shuffle. He also said that while it is his personal desire of Eknath Shinde to remain as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra, whatever name is proposed by the Mahayuti alliance, they will accept it.
As the Mahayuti coalition leaders weigh their options, the delay in finalizing the Chief Minister is causing ripples within both the BJP and Shiv Sena. Ultimately, the decision rests with the senior leadership of the coalition, who must balance the need for stability with the differing interests of each party.
(PRAKASH KUMAR PANDEY)
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