The much-anticipated expansion of the Maharashtra cabinet, led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, is likely to take place around December 11 or 12, ahead of the winter session of the state legislature set to begin on December 16 in Nagpur. The announcement has triggered intense lobbying among coalition members, with ministerial berths and portfolios becoming a key point of contention.
In a recent media interaction, CM Fadnavis indicated that portfolios held by Shiv Sena and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) ministers in the previous government would likely remain with their respective parties. However, the allocation of certain critical departments has fueled debates within the ruling Mahayuti alliance, comprising the BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP factions.
Shinde vs. BJP Over Key Portfolios
Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde is reportedly eyeing significant departments such as home, revenue, water resources, and the public works department (PWD), with additional interest in the urban development portfolio. However, the BJP is determined to retain control over the home and urban development departments, arguing that these were traditionally under the BJP in the previous government and would ensure better coordination with the Union government.
NCP Retains Finance
The NCP, led by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, is expected to retain the finance department alongside other portfolios held by its ministers in the prior government. This continuity aims to stabilize governance amid coalition dynamics.
The BJP?s ?Report Card? Sparks Resentment
In a unique move, the BJP?s central leadership has introduced a ?report card? system to assess ministerial aspirants. The 12-point questionnaire seeks information on criminal cases, inflammatory speeches, legal disputes, and collaboration with coalition partners and local cadres.
While the BJP views the exercise as a measure to ensure transparency and accountability, it has sparked resentment among Shiv Sena and NCP leaders, who believe alliance partners should have the autonomy to decide their representatives in the cabinet. This discontent could potentially escalate into a significant controversy within the coalition.
Cabinet Strength and Winter Session
The expanded cabinet is expected to have a total strength of 43 ministers, including the chief minister. The new team will be in place before the winter session in Nagpur, as the government aims to address key legislative priorities and ensure smooth functioning amid coalition complexities.
As the Mahayuti alliance grapples with internal negotiations, all eyes are on the imminent cabinet expansion and its potential implications for Maharashtra?s political landscape.
