Amid ongoing discussions about the formation of Maharashtra’s new government, sources claim that Shiv Sena leader and outgoing Chief Minister Eknath Shinde is advocating for his son, Shrikant Shinde, to be appointed as the Deputy Chief Minister in a Devendra Fadnavis-led Cabinet. According to sources cited by India TV, Shinde has reportedly offered to stay out of the government himself if this demand is met.
However, this proposal has sparked dissent within Shinde’s own faction of the Shiv Sena. Core party leaders argue that elevating Shrikant to such a prominent role could tarnish the party’s image, particularly after their criticism of Uddhav Thackeray’s promotion of his son, Aaditya Thackeray.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that the BJP’s central leadership has decided on Fadnavis as the next Chief Minister of Maharashtra following the Mahayuti alliance’s sweeping election victory. On November 25, a senior BJP leader reportedly informed Shinde over the phone of this decision, prompting his resignation as Chief Minister on November 26.
Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) MP Naresh Mhaske stated that the party is open to accepting Fadnavis as the Chief Minister if the Mahayuti alliance decides so. He remarked, “We are not like Uddhav Thackeray, who walked away when not given the Chief Minister’s post.”
Ajit Pawar in the Mix
Sources further suggest that Ajit Pawar may retain his position as Deputy Chief Minister and continue to oversee the finance portfolio. Eknath Shinde has reportedly been offered the Deputy CM position as well but could also be given a role in the Union Cabinet if he declines.
Fadnavis Favored by BJP Leadership
The BJP leadership’s backing of Fadnavis stems from his pivotal role in securing a landslide victory for the Mahayuti alliance, with the BJP winning 132 of the alliance’s 230 seats. In comparison, Shinde’s Shiv Sena faction won 57 seats, and Ajit Pawar’s NCP secured 41.
Fadnavis is also seen as a trusted leader by the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sources suggest that the RSS has strongly endorsed Fadnavis for the Chief Minister’s post, recognizing his popularity and leadership within Maharashtra.
The final composition of the Cabinet is expected to reflect the Mahayuti alliance’s strategic priorities while accommodating key players from each faction.