Mumbai: The suspense over Maharashtra’s next Chief Minister is nearing its end, with final decisions revolving around cabinet allocation and leadership. Reports suggest the cabinet will include 42 ministers, distributed as 22 for the BJP, 12 for the Shiv Sena and 10 for Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction.
As per an NDTV report, the BJP is crucially negotiating key portfolios, including Home, which signals its intent to solidify control following its election dominance. It is yet officially unclear that who gets what in the Maharashtra cabinet.
A decisive meeting in Delhi between Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, Ajit Pawar and Union Home Minister Amit Shah was aimed at resolving outstanding issues. The meeting, seen as pivotal, concluded with expectations of an imminent announcement pending approval from Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Shinde Hints At Leaving CM Post For Fadnavis
Eknath Shinde earlier on Wednesday cleared the way for Fadnavis to take the top post, stating that he will abide by the BJP’s central leadership’s decision. “I will not be an obstacle. We trust whatever PM Modi decides,” Shinde reassured reporters. His comments showed his willingness to prioritise coalition stability over personal ambition.
Shinde’s role within the new setup remains uncertain. Several reports suggest he may be appointed as Deputy Chief Minister or offered a central role. However, other reports quoting Shiv Sena sources indicate he may stay in the state cabinet.
The BJP’s insistence on Fadnavis for the Chief Minister position comes after its strong performance in the recent Assembly elections, where it secured 132 out of 288 seats. However, the decision is not without challenges.
Challenges Ahead Of Making Fadnavis Maharashtra CM
Caste dynamics are at play, with Fadnavis being a Brahmin, while most MLAs are from the Maratha community. The BJP is navigating these complexities, with Amit Shah consulting senior leaders, including Vinod Tawde, to address potential backlash. Maratha leader Manoj Jarange-Patil’s past remarks against Fadnavis add to the sensitivities.
Beyond leadership, the shape of the cabinet is critical. The proposed allocation mirrors the alliance’s electoral strength, reinforcing the BJP’s dominant position. Ajit Pawar’s NCP faction and the Shiv Sena will also secure substantial roles, maintaining a balance within the coalition.
With all key players in alignment and assurances given, the focus now shifts to formalising these decisions. Today’s developments are expected to shape Maharashtra’s political landscape majorly, with the BJP keen to consolidate its position both through leadership and strategic control of key ministries.
