Mumbai: Caretaker Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Eknath Shinde, recently fell ill during a visit to his hometown of Satara, triggering speculation amid the ongoing uncertainty over the state’s next Chief Minister. Shinde, who has been experiencing fever, cold and a throat infection for the past two days, is under the care of his family doctor, RM Patre.
According to Dr. Patre, Shinde has been administered antibiotics and saline and is expected to recover within a day or two. “He is doing fine now. These are the side effects of the fever, but he is under observation by a team of 3–4 doctors,” Patre reassured.
Speculations Around Shinde’s Satara Visit
Shinde’s sudden visit to Satara and the cancellation of a scheduled meeting of the Mahayuti alliance raised eyebrows, with many speculating that it reflected his frustration over the ongoing deliberations on the next Chief Minister and cabinet portfolios. However, leaders from Shiv Sena and other allies dismissed these rumours, stressing that Shinde’s health was the only reason for his absence.
Outgoing minister Uday Samant also refuted claims of dissatisfaction, stating, “He isn’t upset. He is unwell. It’s unfair to say he went home because he was upset. He has always said he will fight for the welfare and development of Maharashtra.”
Oath-Taking Scheduled On Dec 5
While Shinde’s health raised questions, the Mahayuti alliance appears to be moving forward. BJP state president Chandrashekhar Bawankule confirmed that the oath-taking ceremony will take place on December 5 at Mumbai’s Azad Maidan. The event will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
In the midst of the speculation, NCP leader Ajit Pawar added clarity by stating that the Chief Minister’s post would go to the BJP. He also mentioned that the other Mahayuti allies, Eknath Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction and the NCP faction led by him, will secure Deputy Chief Minister positions.
The Mahayuti alliance, comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena and NCP factions, recently secured a decisive victory in the Maharashtra Assembly elections. While the distribution of power within the alliance has been a topic of intense discussion, the announcement of the oath-taking ceremony suggests that a consensus is near.
Despite the ongoing suspense over the Chief Minister’s post, Shinde’s commitment to Maharashtra’s welfare and development remains a focal point for his supporters. The upcoming formation of the new government marks a critical juncture in Maharashtra’s political landscape, with all eyes on the power-sharing dynamics within the Mahayuti alliance.
