Eknath Shinde’s Future as Maharashtra CM in Doubt: What Alternatives Await?

After serving as the Chief Minister of Maharashtra for two and a half years, Eknath Shinde from the Shiv Sena may not retain his position this time. Many believe that Devendra Fadnavis from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely to take over as the Chief Minister, although this has yet to be officially confirmed.

The results of the Maharashtra Assembly Elections 2024 were declared on November 23, and the assembly’s term concluded on November 26. The BJP-Shiv Sena-NCP alliance, known as Mahayuti, won the elections by securing 235 out of 288 assembly seats in Maharashtra. However, the alliance has not yet reached a decision on who will be the Chief Minister, as the rivalry between Shinde and Fadnavis continues. Media reports on Wednesday indicated that Shinde was reluctant to relinquish the Chief Minister’s position, with some suggesting he even opposed taking the Deputy Chief Minister’s role. In response to these rumors, Shinde held a press conference on Wednesday afternoon to address the situation.

On Wednesday, Shinde stated that he would support and accept the decision made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, and the BJP’s senior leadership. He mentioned that he had spoken with PM Modi and assured him that he would not be an “obstacle” to their decision.

Shinde has played a significant role in Maharashtra’s political landscape. He rebelled against the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena in 2022 and became the Chief Minister by forming an alliance with the BJP. Under his leadership, several welfare schemes were initiated.

As for what Eknath Shinde might seek in exchange for stepping down from the Chief Minister position, it could include a prominent role within the government, such as a key ministerial position, or influence over certain policies or projects. He may also aim for assurances regarding his political future and the interests of his faction within the Shiv Sena.

1. Deputy CM position?

There are rumors that Shrikant Shinde, the son of Eknath Shinde, might be appointed as the deputy chief minister in Maharashtra. According to sources, Eknath Shinde is keen on securing this position for his son, who currently serves as a Lok Sabha Member representing Kalyan.

2. Convenor of the grand alliance?

Reports indicate that Eknath Shinde has requested to be named the convenor of the grand alliance, known as Mahayuti. However, the BJP has reportedly not reacted favorably to this request. Securing this position could be crucial for Shinde to maintain his standing with his supporters.

3. Maharashtra Home Minister?

There is also speculation that Shinde is seeking a significant role within the government, possibly as the Maharashtra Home Minister. The report suggests that no Chief Minister today wants to hold the position without overseeing the home ministry, similar to how Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has retained control over his state’s home ministry.

4. Central Ministerial position?

After the 2023 state election, former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan was not appointed as CM but was instead given the role of Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare in India. Eknath Shinde might face a similar situation regarding his political prospects.

5. Mayor of Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC)?

There’s a saying that whoever controls the BMC is considered the king of Mumbai. Therefore, even if the BJP secures more seats in the upcoming municipal elections, it’s possible that Shinde’s Shiv Sena could still win the mayoral position.