Maharashtra CM Decision in the Spotlight: Fadnavis or Shinde?
The political landscape in Maharashtra is abuzz with anticipation as the debate over who will assume the chief minister’s role intensifies. Following Eknath Shinde’s resignation, which adhered to constitutional protocol, discussions within the Mahayuti alliance are in full swing. The central question remains: will Devendra Fadnavis reclaim the position, or will Shinde be reappointed?
Eknath Shinde, alongside former deputy chief ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, met Governor CP Radhakrishnan to formally tender his resignation. The Governor has since requested Shinde to function in a caretaker capacity until a new leader is sworn in. This transition comes as the assembly’s term concluded on November 26, creating urgency for the Mahayuti coalition, which delivered an impressive performance in the recent elections by securing 230 out of 288 seats. Within the coalition, the BJP claimed 132 seats, establishing Fadnavis as a strong contender for the post. Meanwhile, Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction garnered 57 seats, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP secured 41.
The BJP’s stance on the matter appears resolute. National spokesperson Prem Shukla emphasized that the scenario in Maharashtra is distinct from Bihar, where a pre-election agreement made Nitish Kumar the chief minister. Shukla clarified that in Maharashtra, no such commitment was made to the Shiv Sena regarding Shinde’s continuation in the role. Furthermore, the BJP has a robust organizational foundation in the state, eliminating the need for an arrangement similar to Bihar’s. During the elections, BJP leaders consistently maintained that the chief minister’s appointment would be based on the electoral outcome, not pre-election promises.
Amid these developments, claims have emerged from some Shiv Sena leaders suggesting Shinde was assured the chief minister’s role before the elections. However, BJP election coordinator Raosaheb Danve has dismissed these assertions, confirming that the process of selecting a chief minister is ongoing. Legislative leaders from two coalition partners have already been appointed, and the BJP is expected to announce its choice soon.
The Shiv Sena’s push for Shinde to retain the position has reportedly caused friction within the coalition. The BJP’s central leadership has expressed reservations about this demand, and a planned show of strength by Sena leaders was subsequently called off. According to insiders, the BJP is firm on retaining the chief ministership within the party, making Fadnavis the leading candidate.
Union minister Ramdas Athawale echoed this sentiment, suggesting that Fadnavis is poised for a third term as chief minister. However, official confirmation from the BJP remains pending as negotiations continue over the allocation of ministerial portfolios. Meanwhile, Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Shirsat hinted that clarity on the matter would emerge following high-level discussions involving key coalition leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Shirsat noted that while there is public support for Shinde’s continuation as chief minister due to his leadership during the elections, the decision ultimately rests with the BJP’s central leadership. Meetings among coalition leaders are expected to finalize the choice, with an announcement anticipated soon.
The political dynamics in Maharashtra underscore the complexities of coalition politics, especially in a state where alliances are formed among diverse parties with varied interests. While the Mahayuti coalition’s electoral success has strengthened its mandate, the decision on the chief minister’s position will shape the state’s political future. Whether Fadnavis will lead the government for the third time or Shinde will retain his role, the final decision is expected to balance the interests of coalition partners while ensuring effective governance.
As discussions progress, all eyes remain on Maharashtra’s political leadership to determine the outcome of this high-stakes decision. An announcement is likely to come shortly, putting an end to the suspense that has gripped the state since Shinde’s resignation.