Eknath Shinde firmly rejects the Deputy CM role, leaving the Mahayuti alliance in a state of political Unpredectability

Will Eknath Shinde Become CM of Maharashtra?

The question of who will steer Maharashtra's ship remains a hot topic, with Shiv Sena advocating Eknath Shinde's return to the top post while the BJP weighs options like Devendra Fadnavis. As the assembly's term concluded on November 26, the coalition is under pressure to resolve this leadership conundrum.

In a press conference held at Varsha Bungalow in Mumbai, Maharashtra's caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde stood alongside Ajit Pawar and Devendra Fadnavis as discussions about forming the government unfolded. "Eknath Shinde will not accept the position of Deputy Chief Minister," asserted Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Shirsat on Wednesday. The political atmosphere is charged, and the pivotal question of Maharashtra's next Chief Minister remains unresolved amidst rising tensions.

With the assembly election results freshly in, the ruling BJP-led Mahayuti alliance finds itself at a crossroads, grappling with multiple candidates vying for the coveted Chief Minister position.

Shiv Sena's Stance on Eknath Shinde

Sanjay Shirsat emphasized to India Today that Eknath Shinde "won't accept Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister's post." He elaborated passionately, stating, "The Assembly elections were fought in the name of Eknath Shinde. He deserves to return as the Chief Minister. He will not accept the position of Deputy Chief Minister."

Shirsat further conveyed to ANI, "We want the CM to be from Shiv Sena. We fought the election under the leadership of CM Eknath Shinde, and I believe that top leaders will also bless him... You will see the new government in Maharashtra by December 2 at the latest. The swearing-in ceremony will be organized on a grand scale, likely at Wankhede Stadium."

Shiv Sena Reflects Political Observations

Shirsat's comments resonate with those of NCP-SP leader Clyde Crasto, who criticized the BJP for its shifting narrative regarding the CM issue. "During the elections, the BJP consistently presented Eknath Shinde as Mahayuti's face. Now, when it’s time to decide, they’re discussing alternatives, which suggests they are using Shinde," Crasto remarked.

He accused the BJP of undermining Shinde's legitimacy. "This is an injustice to Shinde. Are they implying he isn't fit for CM, or are they suggesting they exploited him and now want their own man?" Crasto urged the BJP to honor the people's mandate and promptly announce the new Chief Minister.

BJP’s Dilemma: Eknath Shinde or Devendra Fadnavis?

The Mahayuti coalition, which triumphed in the November 2024 elections, is wrestling with who should lead Maharashtra’s government.

With the BJP claiming 132 seats, Devendra Fadnavis emerges as a strong contender for CM. However, Eknath Shinde’s faction of Shiv Sena, securing 57 seats, is adamant about their claim for him to reclaim his position as Chief Minister.

In an unexpected twist, Union Minister Ramdas Athawale suggested that Devendra Fadnavis should lead Maharashtra’s government, citing public sentiment favoring Fadnavis for CM. Athawale even proposed that Eknath Shinde might consider accepting a Deputy CM role or another position within Modi’s government.

Athawale also said that Shinde is a tad "unhappy" after he came to know that the BJP has chosen Devendra Fadnavis as the next CM of Maharashtra.

"...deadlock is there...when Eknath Shinde came to know that the BJP high command has finalised Devendra Fadnavis as the CM (of Maharashtra), he is a bit unhappy, which I can understand. But, BJP has got 132 seats, and hence I think there has to be a way...Devendra Fadnavis should be made the CM. Shinde can be made Union Minister," Athawale cited.

Ajit Pawar's Role in Government Formation

Ajit Pawar from the NCP remains a crucial figure in this coalition dynamic. His party won 41 seats in this election, and his influence in shaping the new government is significant given the delicate balance among these three major parties.

The uncertainty surrounding Maharashtra's Chief Ministership has heightened pressure on this alliance to reach a resolution swiftly. With the assembly’s term ending on November 26, urgency mounts for a decisive outcome.