The race for the Chief Minister’s seat in Maharashtra has captured public attention as the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and its allies deliberate on the next leader. Eknath Shinde’s resignation as CM has added to the uncertainty. With the Mahayuti alliance’s impressive victory in the recent elections, the spotlight is now on key players like Devendra Fadnavis, Eknath Shinde, and Ajit Pawar.
The Resignation of Eknath Shinde
Eknath Shinde stepped down as Chief Minister on Tuesday, fulfilling a constitutional requirement as the term of the outgoing assembly ended on November 26. Accompanied by former deputy CMs Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar, Shinde met Governor CP Radhakrishnan to hand in his resignation. The governor has asked Shinde to continue in a caretaker role until a new CM is sworn in.
Reasons for Resignation
- End of Assembly Term: Shinde’s resignation was mandatory as the assembly’s term concluded.
- Caretaker Role: The governor’s directive ensures continuity until a new leader is finalized.
Mahayuti Alliance’s Strong Performance
The Mahayuti coalition emerged victorious, securing 230 out of 288 seats in the assembly elections. The BJP led the alliance with 132 seats, followed by the Shiv Sena faction’s 57 seats and the Nationalist Congress Party’s (NCP) 41 seats.
Key Players in the Alliance
- BJP’s Position: With the highest number of seats, the BJP is the frontrunner for the CM post.
- Shiv Sena’s Stand: Shinde’s leadership in the elections has created expectations among his supporters.
- NCP’s Role: Ajit Pawar’s group has a significant stake but is unlikely to claim the CM position.
BJP’s Stand on Leadership
The BJP has firmly dismissed any comparisons with the “Bihar formula” used to share power with Janata Dal (United) in Bihar. BJP spokesperson Prem Shukla clarified that no pre-election promises were made to the Shiv Sena regarding the CM’s post.
Arguments Against Replicating Bihar Formula
- No Pre-Election Commitment: Unlike in Bihar, there was no agreement to let the alliance partner lead.
- Stronger Base in Maharashtra: The BJP’s organizational strength negates the need for power-sharing concessions.
- Focus on Electoral Outcome: Leadership decisions are being based on the recent election results.
Discussions and Deliberations
Negotiations within the alliance have intensified. Shiv Sena leaders advocating for Shinde’s continuation have reportedly caused friction with the BJP’s central leadership.
Key Developments
- Show of Strength Cancelled: A planned demonstration by Sena leaders was called off after BJP’s intervention.
- Leadership Meetings: Shinde, Fadnavis, and Pawar are in talks with top BJP leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
- Announcement Expected Soon: Clarity on the CM’s position is expected by Wednesday morning, as per Shiv Sena spokesperson Sanjay Shirsat.
Who Will Be the Next CM?
While Eknath Shinde’s supporters argue for his continuation, BJP’s Devendra Fadnavis remains the most likely candidate for the CM’s post. Union Minister Ramdas Athawale has publicly backed Fadnavis, though a formal announcement is pending.
Factors in Fadnavis’ Favor
- BJP’s Victory Margin: With 132 seats, Fadnavis has strong support within the party.
- Proven Leadership: His previous tenure as CM adds to his credibility.
- Strategic Importance: Retaining the CM post solidifies BJP’s control in Maharashtra.
Final Steps Before Announcement
The BJP is taking its time to finalize the decision, ensuring the smooth distribution of ministerial portfolios within the alliance. A senior BJP leader emphasized the importance of resolving these details before making the official announcement.
Next Steps
- Portfolio Allocation: Ensuring all alliance partners are satisfied.
- Official Declaration: The announcement of the CM is expected soon.
The suspense over Maharashtra’s next Chief Minister continues as the BJP and its allies deliberate on the best candidate. With the Mahayuti alliance’s strong performance in the elections and key discussions underway, a decision is expected shortly. Whether Devendra Fadnavis or Eknath Shinde takes the top post, the outcome will shape Maharashtra’s political landscape for the next five years.
