Maharashtra?s political sphere was abuzz on Wednesday as Eknath Shinde, the state?s caretaker Chief Minister, extended his congratulations to Devendra Fadnavis, who has been named the Chief Minister-designate. Fadnavis was unanimously elected as the leader of the BJP Legislative Party, paving the way for his return to the top post. However, Shinde kept everyone guessing about his role in the new cabinet, adding a layer of suspense to the unfolding developments.
The swearing-in ceremony for the new Maharashtra government is scheduled to take place on Thursday, December 5, at Azad Maidan in Mumbai. The event will be graced by the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Alongside Fadnavis, two Deputy Chief Ministers, including NCP leader Ajit Pawar, are also set to take the oath. Despite this, there remains uncertainty over Shinde?s participation in the new Mahayuti government.
After meeting with Governor CP Radhakrishnan, Fadnavis confirmed the schedule for the swearing-in ceremony, stating that it will occur at 5:30 PM and emphasized that the BJP-led Mahayuti alliance remains committed to fulfilling promises made to the people of Maharashtra. Fadnavis also revealed that he had personally requested Shinde to join the government, highlighting the strong support for this collaboration among Mahayuti workers. Shinde expressed satisfaction with the two-and-a-half years of the alliance?s governance, describing their achievements as remarkable and deserving of a place in history.
When asked about his potential inclusion in the new cabinet, Shinde playfully deflected, urging journalists to wait until the evening for clarity. Ajit Pawar, sitting beside him, humorously interjected, confirming his own participation and jokingly adding that he wouldn?t keep people waiting. Shinde responded with a smile, referencing the early morning oath-taking of 2019 by Fadnavis and Pawar, which had famously collapsed within days.
A delegation of Mahayuti leaders, including Fadnavis, met the Governor on Wednesday after the BJP legislature party meeting, where Fadnavis was unanimously elected as the leader. Former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani, acting as BJP?s central observer, announced the decision, while Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman emphasized the benefits of the "double engine government" at the state and central levels.
Shinde, reflecting on the alliance?s history, acknowledged Fadnavis?s earlier recommendation for him to become Chief Minister and now returned the favor, expressing confidence in Fadnavis?s leadership. BJP leader Prasad Lad described the upcoming ceremony as a grand event, with around 42,000 attendees, including PM Modi, nine Union ministers, and 19 chief ministers and deputy chief ministers. Special seating arrangements have been made for 40,000 BJP supporters and 2,000 VVIPs, encompassing religious leaders and dignitaries.
Security measures for the ceremony have been intensified, with over 4,000 police personnel deployed to ensure a smooth event. The BJP?s commanding success in the November elections, securing 132 of the 288 assembly seats and leading the Mahayuti coalition to a total of 230 seats, marks its strongest-ever performance in Maharashtra, setting the stage for a dynamic new government under Fadnavis.
