?Eknath Shinde Is The True Hindutva Leader, Should Be Maharashtra CM Again,? Says Mentor

In a spirited endorsement of his prot?g?, Anant Bhushit Jagadguru Suryacharya Krishnadeonand Giri Maharaj has declared Eknath Shinde the ideal choice for Maharashtra's Chief Minister, citing his deep commitment to Hindutva. However, the spiritual leader also expressed doubt that Shinde would be re-elected to the post, as political signals point to BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis as the frontrunner.

"I have come to meet caretaker Chief Minister Eknath Shinde because he is unwell. I will again say that there is no other face like Eknath Shinde for the CM post. However, on November 21, I had said that Eknath Shinde will not be the next Chief Minister, and today I am saying the same again," the Maharaj stated.

He emphasized Shinde?s Hindutva credentials, saying, "Only Eknath Shinde is suitable for Hindutva. After Balasaheb Thackeray and Anand Dighe, he is the most influential face for Hindutva. I am proud to be his mentor. I wish that Eknath Shinde becomes the Chief Minister again, and I have come here to bless him."

The spiritual leader urged the BJP to reconsider and declare Shinde as the CM, calling him a ?popular and rightful? leader for the role.

Shinde Likely to Accept Deputy CM Post

Despite his mentor's endorsement, sources revealed late Monday that Eknath Shinde is expected to take the Deputy CM role in the new government and is likely to head the Urban Development Ministry. The decision follows a meeting between BJP leader Girish Mahajan and Shinde in Thane.

Mahajan, speaking after the meeting, said, "I came to check on Shinde?s health," but refrained from commenting on the political developments.

Fadnavis: The Front-Runner for CM

Although there has been no formal announcement, BJP heavyweight Devendra Fadnavis, a two-time Chief Minister and the outgoing Deputy CM, is widely expected to lead the Mahayuti government. The coalition, which includes BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP, is currently finalizing the power-sharing structure.

The political landscape in Maharashtra remains dynamic as key players negotiate their roles in the new government, with a swearing-in ceremony scheduled for December 5.