Eknath Shinde Agrees to Deputy CM Role, Resolving Mahayuti Deadlock
Eknath Shinde, the caretaker Chief Minister of Maharashtra and leader of the Shiv Sena, has reportedly agreed to assume the position of Deputy Chief Minister in the BJP-led Mahayuti government. This decision appears to have resolved a political deadlock ahead of the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for December 5.
Reports suggest that the breakthrough came after BJP leader Devendra Fadnavis met Shinde at his official residence, Varsha, in Mumbai. The meeting followed Shinde’s return from a private hospital after a health check-up. Fadnavis, a two-time former Chief Minister, is widely regarded as the frontrunner for the top post in the state government.
The BJP has already announced that the oath-taking ceremony will be held at Azad Maidan, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, central ministers, governors, and senior BJP leaders expected to attend. However, it remains unclear who will be sworn in alongside the Chief Minister.
Shiv Sena’s Demand
Despite agreeing to the Deputy CM role, the Shiv Sena has insisted that the home portfolio should be allotted to its party if the BJP takes the Chief Minister’s post.
Leadership Finalization
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and former Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani have been named as central observers for the legislature party meeting on Wednesday morning, where the new state leadership will be confirmed. Vijay Rupani noted that all opinions would be considered before finalizing the leadership.
Record Electoral Performance
The BJP secured its best-ever result in the November 20 Maharashtra legislative assembly elections, winning 132 out of 288 seats. The Mahayuti coalition, which includes Shinde-led Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar-led NCP, achieved a commanding majority with 230 seats.
Preparations are underway for the swearing-in ceremony, marking the beginning of the new BJP-led Mahayuti government in Maharashtra.
